ECOLOGICAL CORRIDORS: A STRATEGY FOR CONSERVING BIODIVERSITY IN THE MOJU RIVER BASIN, BRAZILIAN AMAZON

Abstract

Objective: Using remote sensing and geographic information systems, this research aimed to identify areas with potential for ecological corridors. Theoretical framework: This study was conducted based on theoretical reflections on environmental issues, the relationship between society and nature. Topics on ecological corridors, environmental protection areas, legal reserve areas and river basins were addressed. Method: To model the ecological corridor in order to connect the fragments present in the study area, the following thematic information was considered: vegetation cover and land use, area slope, Permanent Preservation areas and Legal Reserve areas. Difficulty indices (weights) were defined, with the highest weights being those that present the greatest difficulty in connecting forest fragments. Results and conclusion: In the end, thematic cost matrices were obtained with the difficulty of installing ecological corridors, considering soil use and coverage, legal reserve areas and permanent protection areas. It is expected that the research will contribute to integrated action planning actions that include public managers and the community to promote environmental adequacy measures. Implications of the research: This research will contribute to public policy measures, helping decision-making for environmental improvement in the Moju River basin, Brazilian Amazon. Originality/value: It has socio-environmental and scientific importance, as it contributes to reducing the process of forest fragmentation in the landscape, improving the ecological and physical processes of the dynamics inherent to the BH of the Moju River.