Maps to support the study of atlantic forest fragmentation in the state of Rio de Janeiro

a cartographic analysis

Abstract

The state of Rio de Janeiro has preserved a significant portion of the Atlantic Forest, despite forest fragmentation. Regarding the mapping of its forest remnants, we analyzed the materials, objectives, and methodologies used to produce four maps of land cover and land use in the state, produced by different initiatives. Their spatial, temporal, and thematic details, geographical coverage, and official status of the data were examined, identifying similarities and differences, weaknesses, and potentialities. We concluded that spatial detail varied even when the minimum mapped area was the same, highlighting the influence and relevance of materials and methods on the results of each map. FBDS and SEA-RJ maps stand out for their greater spatial detail, and MapBiomas for its time series.