Habitat Classification of Maharlu Wetland Using MedWet Classification System

Identifying the different habitats in wetlands is essential for their protection. This research was carried out with the aim of classifying habitat areas of Maharlu wetland in Fars province using MedWet, Mediterranean Wetland Habitat Classification System. Information on dominant vegetation cover, soil, and hydrology of the wetland was prepared using field surveys. The data on the water regime were obtained with quarterly satellite images from 2016-2019 in remote sensing media using ArcGIS. Sampling was performed for wetland plants and lake bed outcrops from 39 stations in May 2020. Plants were identified and classified on the basis of being an annual or perennial presence and submerged or floating. By stacking this information in ILWIS, different habitat zones were separated. Each was then specified using habitat international standard codes, and habitat maps were prepared. In total, 42 habitats were identified in the Maharlu wetland. The most prevalent habitats were palustrine–emergent–persistent–seasonally flooded–Mixosaline– (P-EPSX-) (14,797,300 m2), palustrine–emergent–persistent–temporarily flooded– Mixosaline (P-EPSX-) (296,600 m2), lacustrine–littoral–emergent–persistent–seasonally flooded–mixosaline– (LLEPSX) (2,079,900 m2), and lacustrine–littoral–emergent–persistent–Semipermanently flooded–mixosaline– (LLEPLX-) (493,000 m2). The results of this research in recognizing habitats are useful for the protection of ecosystem sections, especially plant communities.