Integración de índices espectrales y precipitación para la evaluación de parámetros morfométricos en ríos tropicales

Abstract

CONDITION FOR PUBLICATION OF PROJECT. The changes in the trajectories of the main axis of a river is one of the most studied topics within fluvial geomorphology due to the rapidity of the physical changes that the fluvial channels present under the influences of environmental elements (e.g. precipitation). Because these changes present a considerable randomness, this has an impact on the design of local management plans. In this way, the objective is to analyze the meander migration event in a river within the Ecuadorian coast (Pedro Carbo River) by integrating remote sensing data, precipitation and classification algorithms for the identification of trends and suggestions for river landscape management strategies. To achieve this, a four-stage workflow was carried out: (i) data collection and processing, (ii) calculation of morphometric parameters, (iii) analysis of climatic influences and (iv) generation of management guidelines. The results showed that the classification model achieves satisfactory results in water/soil discrimination, with an accuracy that exceeds 80% of correct answers for obtaining water bodies. Meanwhile, the calculation of morphometric parameters such as sinuosity and lateral migration, allowed contemplating at least six areas where the river reaches values greater than 1.5 (very sinuous), and absolute displacements greater than 300 meters, respectively. Additionally, a delay analysis showed that for the study area the relationship of precipitation with horizontal displacements can be explained with at least one period immediately prior to the change. Finally, a hierarchical management analysis (AMRO) suggested that there are different hydrological responses in the area, suggesting proposals such as revegetation and natural barriers. In summary, this study constitutes an essential resource for the consideration of the behavior of river dynamics in the subtropical zone of the Ecuadorian coast and showing how morphometric and hydroclimatic data can be integrated for the development of preventive management of the effects of changes in the river landscape. Keywords: fluvial, lateral shift, remote sensing, sinuosity