Authors :
Afiesimama, S. E; Mmom, P.C; Eludoyin, O. S
Volume/Issue :
Volume 6 - 2021, Issue 7 - July
Google Scholar :
http://bitly.ws/9nMw
Scribd :
https://bit.ly/3CgOaZw
Abstract :
Mangroves are one of the unique ecosystems
on earth that provide both ecologic and socio-economic
benefits to coastal communities. However, increase in
anthropogenic activities has put pressure on the
mangrove forests resulting in the decline of mangrove
extent. This study assessed the extent and rate of
mangrove cover change for the period 1986-2018 in
Niger Delta, Nigeria. Mangrove cover extent was
estimated using remotely sensed data (Landsat TM
images for 1986, 2000, and 2018). Supervised
classification was conducted for image classification and
mapping changes using a maximum livelihood classifier
approach. Changes in the extent of mangrove cover were
calculated using the change detection method. An
assessment of the Landsat TM images showed a 63.65%
(3,206.25 km2
) decrease in mangrove extent and an
annual average mangrove loss rate of 1.99% yr -1
for the
period 1986-2018. The result revealed the dynamics of
mangrove cover change, and concludes that the rate of
mangrove loss in Niger Delta is consistent with global
trend. These findings will provide data for aiding
mangrove conservation intervention policies in Niger
Delta, Nigeria. The study recommends continuous
monitoring and assessment of changes in the mangrove
areas which will also help to identify the drivers of these
changes.
Keywords :
Mangrove Cover, Remotely-Sensed Data, Change Detection Method, Mangrove Conservation, Niger Delta.
Mangroves are one of the unique ecosystems
on earth that provide both ecologic and socio-economic
benefits to coastal communities. However, increase in
anthropogenic activities has put pressure on the
mangrove forests resulting in the decline of mangrove
extent. This study assessed the extent and rate of
mangrove cover change for the period 1986-2018 in
Niger Delta, Nigeria. Mangrove cover extent was
estimated using remotely sensed data (Landsat TM
images for 1986, 2000, and 2018). Supervised
classification was conducted for image classification and
mapping changes using a maximum livelihood classifier
approach. Changes in the extent of mangrove cover were
calculated using the change detection method. An
assessment of the Landsat TM images showed a 63.65%
(3,206.25 km2
) decrease in mangrove extent and an
annual average mangrove loss rate of 1.99% yr -1
for the
period 1986-2018. The result revealed the dynamics of
mangrove cover change, and concludes that the rate of
mangrove loss in Niger Delta is consistent with global
trend. These findings will provide data for aiding
mangrove conservation intervention policies in Niger
Delta, Nigeria. The study recommends continuous
monitoring and assessment of changes in the mangrove
areas which will also help to identify the drivers of these
changes.
Keywords :
Mangrove Cover, Remotely-Sensed Data, Change Detection Method, Mangrove Conservation, Niger Delta.
