Recent changes in the landscape structure of Batuco Wetland, Central Chile

In spite of the copious regulations created in last years to protect Batuco wetland, located Lampa county; at northeast Metropolitan Region, Chile, this ecosystem has not stopped suffering a significant degradation, expressed by modification its landscape. study we evaluated temporal change experienced decades landscape structure that wetland as result such degradation. To do this, calculated set metrics over their main land use/land covers; interpreted and mapped from an aerial photograph acquired 2005 satellite image 2021, order allow us measure magnitude temporary variations. The doubling urban area within period interest was manifested continuous regular sprawl mainly two natural vegetation covers wetland: wet brackish meadows open thorn scrublands. Both have great ecological significance for under consideration, being reduced patches with smaller core area; clear evidence fragmentation process confirming degradation propitiated recent anthropic occupation wetland’s soils. Through research it is expect provide scientific community competent government agencies, quantitative data contributing diagnose question, so they can more efficiently guide monitoring management actions conservation restoration.