Dunas interiores de Casa Nova, Bahia: geomorfologia, geoconservação e serviços ecossistêmicos no semiárido nordestino

Abstract

The interior dunes are formed by deposits of quartz sediments that were (re)mobilized through aeolian processes during the Cenozoic, in the Quaternary period. Such features are important for studies of Geosciences, as they comprise an area that has undergone recent geological transformations, something essential for researchers to be able to understand how this (paleo)environment was formed in the middle of the hinterland of the Northeast region of Brazil, as well as the its current evolution, in addition to holding significant scenic beauty and geomorphological relevance. The inland dune field in the municipality of Casa Nova has an exceptional character, as it is located in a semi-arid region, with characteristics that are different from coastal environments, where dunes mostly occur and, therefore, demands studies that aim to better understand this environment. In this context, the main objective of the research is to analyze the geomorphology of the interior dunes of Casa Nova (BA), considering the past and current dynamics, with emphasis on places of greater heritage and ecosystem relevance. The methodological procedures took place in three different and integral stages. In the office, bibliographic surveys were carried out through systematic review; cartographic and iconographic with emphasis on the study area. In the field work, there were steps to improve the thematic maps, fill in the geomorphological heritage assessment form, identify ecosystem services, in addition to photographic and cartographic records. In the laboratory, office and field data were processed, with the elaboration of thematic maps, nontextual elements, such as flowcharts, tables and mosaics of edited photos. Given the analyzed scenario, it is seen that the understanding of geomorphological aspects, carrying out the inventory and quantified evaluation are significant geoconservationist tools, as well as the identification of ecosystem services associated with the interior dunes of the municipality of Casa Nova/BA, contribute to the use sustainability of these places and their surroundings.