Analysis of recent changes in natural habitat types in the Apuseni Mountains (Romania), using multi-temporal Landsat satellite imagery (1986–2015)

摘要: Abstract This study analysed the dynamics of natural habitat types in last 30 years, three largest Natura 2000 sites Apuseni Mountains area Romania. The records one highest percentages protected areas among Romanian mountains, exceeding 50%, characterised by high biodiversity with faunal and floral endemics rare species across distinctive karstic landscapes. Habitat type maps were derived from Landsat satellite images acquired 1986, 1993, 2000, 2007 2015 using an object-based classification. Based on maps, 18 landscape metrics at class level 16 have been to quantify structure, composition spatial pattern landscape, correlating them changes. Results indicate that deciduous coniferous forests continuously improved Apuseni-Vlădeasa Mountains, but surprisingly deteriorated after site was declared a Special Protection Area (SPA) 2007. mixed forest has recorded tendency deterioration since however, this trend stopped 2007, probably due decrease human interventions. In site, pastures meadows until agriculture development (before 1993) growth vegetation, improving considerably surprising atenuation habitats within Defileul Muresului Inferior – Dealurile Lipovei it appears interventions diminished SPA, while Drocea-Zarand not suffered deterioration. these two sites, constant decades, mainly land abandonment. are potentially useful for authorities improve management develop appropriate strategies conservation.