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Mid- and Large-Scale Geodiversity Calculation in Fuentes Carrionas (NW Spain) and Serra do Cadeado (Paraná, Brazil): Methodology and Application for Land Management

Abstract:

A state-of-the-art geodiversity concept, its use and scientific development are presented. Methodologies for geodiversity calculation are assessed, as well as their aim and problems. Geodiversity calculation methodology based on biodiversity richness index is explained and applied to two different areas: Fuentes Carrionas, a high mountain mid-latitude environment in northern Spain, and Serra do Cadeado, a tropical mid-mountain environment in southern Brasil. A geodiversity map of Fuentes Carrionas proves that glacial cirques over 2000 m a.s.l. keep a high geodiversity related to a periglacial and glacial environment, whereas a geodiversity map of Serra do Cadeado shows that high geodiversity areas are situated at its main structural scarp. Geodiversity calculation needs to take scale and hierarchy issues into account, which makes comparison only possible if the same scale is used. Geodiversity calculation is a useful tool for land management as it defines areas subject to protection due to the richness of abiotic elements. It is also useful in terms of environmental impact assessment and geotourism evaluation at remote areas.