Mapping and quantifying habitat fragmentation in small coastal areas: a case study of three protected wetlands in Apulia (Italy)

摘要: In the Mediterranean Region, habitat loss and fragmentation severely affect coastal wetlands, due to rapid expansion of anthropogenic activities that has occurred in last decades. Landscape metrics are commonly used define landscape patterns evaluate processes. This investigation focuses on performance a set pattern indices within landscapes characterized by environments extent below 1,000 ha. The aim is assess degree for monitoring protected areas learn whether values can characterize fine-resolution patterns. study three wetlands belonging Natura 2000 network sited Adriatic side Apulia (Southern Italy). Habitat Maps were derived from Vegetation generated integrating phytosociological releves Earth Observation data. sites, total 16 types detected. A selected was applied order investigate their assessing spatial habitats. final results showed most significant related highly specialized closely linked environments. interpreting these habitats, some specific ecological factors taken into account. shape useful usually have elongated morphology along shoreline or lagoons. all cases, be meaningful, data obtained application jointly assessed, especially at class level.