VULNERABILITY ANALYSIS FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF CONSERVATION UNITS IN THE SERRA DE CARRANCAS MICROREGION, MG

Abstract

Conservation Units are among the best methods found to secure biodiversity conservation. The physical and biotic characteristics of high altitude areas such as Serra de Carrancas and Luminárias, in Minas Gerais state, make these places a home to endemic species and to rich biodiversity. However, these environments are highly susceptible to fast advancing erosive processes that potentially lead to soil, habitat and species loss. This study aims to evaluate the physical and biotic characteristics of the Serra de Carrancas and Luminárias region using Natural Vulnerability indicators, and also to propose Conservation Unit implementation in areas which, as per this index, are considered environmentally critical and highly sensitive to anthropic actions. Biotic and abiotic indicators, as managed by a geographic information system, identified the most vulnerable areas in the study site and, given the sensitivity and scope of Serra de Carrancas and Luminárias, a State Park was proposed. The natural vulnerability index proved to be an effective tool to pinpoint prospective conservation unit areas, gathering important environmental factors and thus improving the efficiency of conservation strategies.