The role of topography, climate, soil and the surrounding matrix in the distribution of Veredas wetlands in central Brazil

Wetlands are among the most important ecosystems in the world in terms of endemic biodiversity, carbon storage and hydrological process. Veredas wetlands are distributed across the Brazilian savanna (i.e. Cerrado biome) and are permanently protected areas. Veredas wetlands have a hydromorphic soil, providing water to the main rivers of central Brazil and allowing the occurrence of several endemic species of plants and animals. Although recent studies on biotic and abiotic characteristics have been conducted in several areas of Veredas, the studies are local and there is a lack of information about large-scale patterns. Here we used remote sensing data to explore the role of climate, soil, topography and surrounding matrix explaining Veredas occurrence in the Tridngulo Mineiro and Alto Paranaiba (TMAP), a mesoregion of the State of Minas Gerais, Southeastern Brazil. Veredas were more frequent in the western region of TMAP, in areas with lower altitudes, temperature and precipitation seasonality, soil cation exchange capacity, silt and sand content, and slope. Moreover, farming was the most frequent land use in areas surrounding Veredas. Veredas are associated with recharging of the water table and water flow that maintains rivers in the Upper Parana River water basin. We trust the present assessment will be of help for the development of conservation strategies and biodiversity studies. [GRAPHICS] .

Automated summary

Wetlands play a crucial role in terms of biodiversity, carbon storage, and hydrological processes. Veredas wetlands in Brazil's savanna are protected areas that provide water to main rivers and support endemic species. However, there is a lack of large-scale information about these wetlands. Using remote sensing data, this study explored the factors influencing the occurrence of Veredas wetlands in a specific region of Brazil. The results showed that Veredas were more frequent in the western part of the region, characterized by lower altitude, temperature, and precipitation seasonality, as well as specific soil and land use patterns. This assessment can contribute to the development of conservation strategies and biodiversity studies.