Changing landscapes: habitat monitoring and land transformation in a long-time used Mediterranean coastal wetland

Abstract Zone Umide della Capitanata, located in the northeastern part of Apulia Region, is one most extensive coastal wetlands Italian peninsula and largest components Mediterranean wetland system. Despite its high ecological importance, this site has been undergoing a variety pressures intensified recent decades. This study analyzes evaluates changes occurred area between 2010 2020. Land cover habitat maps were performed by photointerpretation on-site surveys, classified according to FAO-LCCS EUNIS taxonomies, respectively. To focus on local dynamics, four subset areas analyzed separately. A set landscape metrics was computed analyze structure. The anthropogenic affecting described through Driving Forces-Pressures-State-Impact-Response (DPSIR) conceptual framework. Numerous identified, deriving from both finest thematic redefinition pressures. Both class conversions modifications identified quantified means transition matrices. Most observed borne classes belonging saltmarshes dune systems. In particular, configuration well highlighted specific metrics. Agriculture practices water flow pattern turned out be main driving forces exerting these natural Significant differences found subsets under analysis, thus indicating that different management strategies lead levels conservation.