Tropicultura (Jan 2017)
Modélisation de la dynamique du paysage forestier de la Réserve Spéciale d'Ambatovaky (Nord-Est de Madagascar)
Abstract
Modelling of the Forest Landscape Dynamics of Réserve Spéciale d'Ambatovaky (Northeast of Madagascar). Madagascar shelters a unique biodiversity that faces numerous threats, such as human activities, which cause deforestation. The objective of this study was to identify the landscape forest's dynamics of the Réserve Spéciale d'Ambatovaky (RSA) from 1996 to 2050 based upon a first order Markov chain model. For this purpose, LANDSAT images of 1996, 2004 and 2014 were used to compose the land cover maps. A transition matrix made it possible to simulate the composition of the landscape until 2050. The results showed that the forest area of RSA decreased and is substituted by a secondary formation called "savoka" that appears several years after the end of agricultural activities. Slash-and-burn agriculture, called locally "tavy", is a common practice of farmers in the coastal areas of Madagascar. Tavy is the main reason for the decline of the forest area.
