Coastal habitat mapping of Bahia Aguacate and bahia Cupica, northern Colombian Pacific coast

Abstract

Colombian North Pacific region host a huge valuable ecosystem due to its particular conditions. Some of these sectors are isolated and pristine, with little research effort. When there is a limitation of economic resources, classification and basic mapping techniques of the intertidal and subtidal habitats allow the identification of distinct and representative areas of a region. Previous studies point out the zones of Cabo Marzo- Bahia Aguacate and Punta Cruces- Bahia Cupica as ecologically important areas, therefore the present study focus on habitat mapping these sites. To create the map, we develop a hierarchical classification of intertidal and subtidal habitats
separately. In conclusion, Colombian North Pacific region is extremely heterogenic in coastal habitat types and therefore important area for biodiversity conservation. Strategic conservation management and habitat protection is needed, integrating social-ecological approach in order to support the sustainable utilization of the rich resources contained in the region.