Spatial Analysis of the Drivers, Characteristics, and Effects of Forest Fragmentation

Building on the existing literature, this study examines whether specific drivers of forest fragmentation cause particular characteristics, and how these characteristics can be linked to their effects forest-dwelling species. This research uses Landsat remote imaging examine changing patterns forests. It focuses areas which have undergone a high level driver, in either agricultural expansion or commodity-driven deforestation. Seven municipalities states Rondônia Mato Grosso Brazil are selected as case areas, experienced deforestation respectively. Land cover maps each municipality created using Geographical Information System software ArcGIS Spatial Analyst extension. The resulting categorical input into Fragstats calculate quantifiable metrics for municipality. To determine that likely cause, literature review species traits affect responses fragmentation. Results indicate that, underwent expansion, remaining patches became more complex shape with longer edges lost large amount core area. negatively affects highly dispersive specialist habitat. In deforestation, it was would become less aggregated create disjunct areas. smaller, sedentary animals do not naturally travel long distances. is significant links individual landscape turn predict traits. information will prove useful managers, particularly examined study, deciding require further protection measures. methodology could applied other such fires.