Mapping of biotopes between Amasra and Inkum (Bartin), Western Black Sea Region of Turkey

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the study was to identify and map the biotope areas located between Amasra and Inkum settlements of Bartin Province, an important coastal province in the northwest of Black Sea Region in Turkey. This region represents the onshore Euxin part of Euro-Siberian phytogeographical province. Flora, abiotic characteristics, actual vegetation and land uses were taken into account for identification of biotopes found in the research area, which has a rich ecological and floristic diversity. Methodology: Remote sensing and GIS were effectively used for preparation and interpretation of data, and necessary satellite images, digital maps and databases for analysis were also generated. Composition of species belonging to plant cover was used as an indicator in addition to other factors for distinguishing different biotopes. Vegetation surveys were carried out and inventories were made in selected 156 sample plots that represent various ecological and floristic characteristics. Results: Eleven main biotopes were identified viz., deciduous forest lands, afforestation areas, agricultural lands, shrublands, cliffs, Inkum Dune area, Bartin Riverside, roadsides, degraded lands, urban settlements and rural settlements. These biotopes may be divided into 30 sub-biotopes. In other words, a total number of 41 biotopes were classified and mapped during the research. Interpretation: With the mapping of the biotopes covering species that have a special importance in the area, a base has been achieved to manage the formation of aims and the conservation status of the ecosystems special to the Black Sea at landscape level.