Mangroves Cover Change Trajectories 1984-2020: The Gradual Decrease of Mangroves in Colombia

Awareness of the significant benefits mangroves to human lives and their role in regulating environmental processes has increased during recent decades. Yet there remains uncertainty about mangrove change trajectories drivers at national scales. In Colombia, absence historical satellite imagery persistent cloud cover have impeded accurate mapping extent over time. We create a temporally consistent Landsat-derived dataset using LandTrendr algorithm track land conversion from 1984-2020 across Colombia. Over this period, decreased by ~48.000ha (14% total area). find gradual reduction along Pacific coast since 2004, whereas, Caribbean, declined around 1984-1988 also after 2012. Our time-series analysis matches with three local sites. For instance, hydroclimatic events, dredging activities, high sediment loads transported rivers collectively improved recovery some contrast, activities pressure linked agricultural expansion road construction degraded mangroves. The transition dense other vegetation types is most affecting impacting an area 38,469 ± 2,829 ha. anticipate loss, especially coast, resulting intensified activity. Prioritization conservation areas needed support institutions, maintain currently protected areas, develop strategies (e.g. payment for ecosystem services) preserve one pristine regions Western Hemisphere.