THE USE OF METRICS IN LANDSCAPE ECOLOGY FOR THE ANALYSIS OF SUB-WATERSHED SPATIAL PATTERNS IN RIBEIRAO DA BOA VISTA

Abstract

The analysis of spatial patterns in a region is possible from the use of metrics of landscape ecology which allow for a quantitative description of the structural composition and spatial configuration, providing evidence-based scientific support of its functional conditions. Given this, the present study aimed to map and analyze the total landscape metrics and the forest fragments of a sub-watershed in the state of Sao Paulo, using the geotechnologies which enable the survey and processing of spatial data in an agile manner. To this end, we have carried out land use and land cover mapping, and the forest patch classification. Subsequently, area metrics, size & density, edge, shape and total landscape centre area and sub-basin forest fragments had been calculated. The results have shown that the sub-basin landscape is rather fragmented in terms of land use and cover, there being a predominance of anthropogenic activities, especially of temporary crops and pastures. As for landscape metrics, it was possible to note that, on the whole, the anthropic activities have less complicated forms and with smaller edge quantities, highlighting that when society occupies the land, there is geometric occupancy trend. Regarding forest patches have proven more complex, possibly resulting from suppression of native vegetation. Studies of this kind support the establishment of conservation strategies and environmental restoration by promoting biodiversity maintenance and ecological balance re-establishment.