Detailed GIS mapping of communities of plants with conservation status and defining the touristic zones in the group "Kanarata and Quarry Drenaka" of the protected area "Pobiti Kamani" (Northeastern Bulgaria)

Abstract

The aims of the present study were: 1) to perform a detailed mapping of the distribution of conservationally significant (endemic, vulnerable, endangered and protected) plant species in the group "Kanarata and Quarry Drenaka" of the protected area "Pobiti Kamani" for 2020 yr in GIS environment; 2) based on the overlap of the distribution sites of plant species, to determine the "hot spots" of plant biodiversity, access to which should be limited in order to protect them and at the same time to identify areas with no or low concentration of conservationally important species in order to trace and mark the tourist paths in the protected area. In order to investigate the distribution of six plant communities, a detailed GIS mapping was performed. As a result of the study, detailed distribution maps of investigated species communities in Central Group were drawn. Special attention is paid to the zones where two or more communities were overlapped. The identification of the areas with concentration of conservation-significant species and localization of "hot spots" is crucial for protection management of the group "Kanarata and Quarry Drenaka" of the protected area "Pobiti Kamani". The model of "hot spots" and the model of overlapping are applicable and in combination with detailed distribution maps are fundamental for more successful protection and conservation. The suggested touristic zones with lack of conservation species can be used to trace and to construct environmentally friendly tourist trail and paths without destroying and harming the species, their habitats, and the aesthetic and recreational value of the landscapes.