Spatio-temporal analysis of wetlands status: a case study for Bulgaria

Wetlands are the habitats for a large number of protected plant and animal species and at the same time are among the ecosystems types that are most affected by human activity, which has led to their significant reduction in their area disrtibution and the loss of biological variety within their territory. In the current survey we have analyzed the status of some of the most representative wetlands in Bulgaria (Srebarna, Shabla Lake - Ezerets, Pomorie, Mandra-Poda, Kalimok- Brashlen, Complex Kalimok, Pozharevo-Garvan, Durankulak Lake, Bourgas Lake, Atanasovsko Lake and Aheloy-Ravda- Nesebar) based on remote sensing for a period of more than 7 years to establish the availability or lack of changes mainly in wetlands’ water surface. The quantitative assessment and the degree of wetands changes have been made by calculating remotely-sensed indices NDVI, NDGI, NDWI, MNDWI and others. A methodology for ecological monitoring in different temporal intervals has been proposed and additionally the results from the application of remote sensing for the purpose of wetland monitoring have been presented. The results will contribute to developing a common model for wetlands monitoring in Bulgaria based on remote sensing which can improve the existing management practices for wetland conservation, restoration and maintenance.