Spatial Dynamics and Predictive Analysis of Vegetation Cover in the Ouémé River Delta in Benin (West Africa)

The vegetation cover of the Ouémé Delta constitutes a biodiversity hotspot for wetlands in southern Benin. However, overexploitation natural resources addition to intensification agricultural practices led degradation ecosystems this region. present work aims reconstruct, using remote sensing, spatial dynamics land use order assess recent changes and predict trends its cover. methodology was based on sensing GIS techniques. Altogether, process helped us carry out classification Landsat images period 30 years (stating year 1990, 2005, 2020) via Envi software. statistics resulting from processing were combined ArcGIS software establish transition matrices monitor conversion rates classes obtained. Then, prediction plant landscape by 2035 performed “Land Change Modeler” extension available under IDRISI. results showed seven (07) occupation use. There agglomerations, mosaics fields fallow land, water bodies, dense forests, gallery swamp shrubby wooded savannahs. observation over 15 1990 2005 decrease 71.55% 63.42% surface area Delta. A similar trend noticed 2020 when it reached 55.19%, entailing loss 16.37% habitats years. two drivers such are fertility alluvial soils agriculture along urbanization. predictive modeling developed reveals slight increase forests savannas, contrary lack significant forests. This is key information that expected be useful both policy decision makers involved sustainable management conservation study area.