Abstract
Human interventions during the last 70 years have altered the characteristics of the Gialova Lagoon, a coastal wetland that is part of a wider Natura 2000 site. In this study, we explore how human interventions and climate altered the wetland’s hydrological conditions and habitats, leading to changing wetland functions over time. Our interpretations are based on a mixed methodological approach combining conceptual hydrologic models, analysis of aerial photographs, local knowledge, field observations, and GIS (Geographic Information System) analyses. The results show that the combined effects of human interventions and climate have led to increased salinity in the wetland over time. As a result, the fresh and brackish water marshes have gradually been turned into open water or replaced by halophytic vegetation with profound ecological implications. Furthermore, current human activities inside the Natura 2000 area and in the surrounding areas could further impact on the water quantity and quality in the wetland, and on its sensitive ecosystems. We suggest that a more holistic understanding of the broader socio-ecological system is needed to understand the dynamics of the wetland and to achieve sustainable long-term management and conservation strategies.
Highlights
This study shows how major human interventions and climatic factors during the last century have altered the characteristics of the Gialova Lagoon wetland by transforming its hydrologic and ecological functions
By using a conceptual hydrologic and salt mass model linked to climatic factors, field measurements and aerial photographs analysis, we show that human interventions have reduced freshwater inputs and water circulation in the wetland, resulting in increased salinity
Based on our land cover/land use analysis, we suggest that these hydrologic changes have altered wetland habitats, which have transitioned from being freshwater species-dominated to saline species-dominated
Summary
Greece has lost more than 70% of its wetlands over the last 130 years due to policymakers having decided to drain lakes and coastal lagoons to increase agriculture land areas [1,2]. Gialova Lagoon wetland (GLw), a coastal wetland located in Greece, is an example of a wetland area that, since the 1960s, has suffered from extensive drainage and the impact of other human activities [6–8]. These activities have resulted in severe environmental changes, leading to frequent dystrophic crises in the lagoon [9,10]. Considering the lagoon is part of a larger wetland that
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