[Objective] This study proposes a diagnostic framework and coordination strategy for ecological space conflicts in Hefei Metropolitan Area, aiming to reconcile regional ecological preservation with socioeconomic development. [Methods]We integrated morphological spatial pattern analysis (MSPA) with minimum cumulative resistance (MCR) modeling to delineate ecological sources/corridors and establish ecological security patterns. Spatial evaluation combined supply-demand equilibrium analysis to assess urban-agricultural space suitability and identify non-ecological priority zones. Conflict intensity was quantified through spatial overlay analysis using a newly developed ecological conflict index. [Results] (1)Central and southern regions exhibited superior ecological connectivity, contrasting with severe fragmentation in northern areas. Ecological sources and corridors demonstrated distinct south-north differentiation, with core sources aggregating in southern hilly regions. (2)Non-ecological spaces displayed concentric zonation: high development suitability and demand in central zones, transitional characteristics in suburbs, and lower values in peripheral areas.(3)Spatial conflicts manifested center-edge heterogeneity, with high-conflict zones (24.21%) concentrated in urban-rural transition areas reflecting ecological sensitivity-development demand contradictions. Medium-low conflict zones (44.83%) occupied buffer regions with favorable ecological conditions and limited human disturbance. (4)We propose a dual governance mechanism featuring “ecological red lines enforcement”and “adaptive non-ecological space management”, incorporating conditional access policies and dynamic adaptation strategies to reconcile ecological integrity with development needs.[Conclusion] The core-periphery gradient pattern of ecological conflicts underscores that coordinated spatial allocation and differentiated governance between ecological/non-ecological spaces constitute essential pathways for achieving sustainable development in metropolitan areas.