Analysis on water replenishment effect of ecological sluices in the middle reaches of the Tarim River

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To evaluate the water replenishment effect of ecological sluices in the Tarim River’s mainstream and the water demand for ecological restoration, this study focused on the area controlled by a typical sluice group in the middle reaches. Using Landsat imagery (2000–2020) and the Penman-Monteith method, we quantified the spatiotemporal evolution of vegetation water consumption and ecological water demand, proposing corresponding sluice operation strategies. The results show: (1) From 2000 to 2020, natural vegetation consumed 1.62 × 10 8 m 3 of water on average, increasing by 0.1 × 10 8 m 3 per 5 years. Woodland and grassland expanded by 67.18 km 2 per 5 years, demonstrating effective ecological restoration. (2) Vegetation water consumption varied spatiotemporally, peaking near sluice-fed branch canals and declining with distance from the river. The highest consumption occurred in 2015, concentrated in mid-growth periods. (3) Ecological water demands were: 1.76 × 10 8 m 3 (maintaining 2020 conditions), 1.62 × 10 8 m 3 (2000–2020 average), and 2.01 × 10 8 m 3 (optimal 2015 level). By linking sluice impacts to vegetation water use and quantifying restoration needs, this study provides a scientific basis for water management and ecological regulation.