Biotope mapping in an urban environment for sustainable urban development ‒ A case study in southern part of Turkey

Abstract

The aim of this contribution is mapping and analysing of biotopes sensitivity in Antakya urban city with its surroundings. The three objectives were: (1) to identify the biotope types which display the structural characteristics of the study area, (2) to map the biotopes using object-oriented classification and (3) to determine sensitivity of these biotopes using rarity and reestablishment of research area. The study mainly carried out in two stages: the first one determination of biotope types using information from field surveys and aerial images; the second stage determination of biotope sensitivity to human disturbance. The sensitivity assessment based on two parameters; the rarity and the re-establishment ability of biotopes. Based on sensitivity results, 1.581 ha of the research area –forest, river banks and river and banks- is very sensitive, 454,6 ha of the research area –cemetery, settlement with site, and maquie- of land sensitive.