Erosão hídrica linear no estado do Mato Grosso (Brasil) : análise espacial e identificação de áreas críticas

Abstract

Linear water erosion is one of Brazil’s main drivers of soil degradation, especially in regions of agricultural expansion over fragile soils, such as the state of Mato Grosso. This study aimed to identify the state’s critical areas of linear erosion by integrating remote sensing techniques, geostatistical analyses, and environmental modeling. 61,005 medium- and large-scale linear erosion features were mapped through visual interpretation of high-resolution satellite imagery, followed by density analysis and classification of erosion hotspots. In total, 15 critical areas were identified and categorized as Moderately Critical (AMC), Critical (AC), and Extremely Critical (AEC), with densities ranging from 0.29 to 0.61 erosion features per km². Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was applied to identify the main environmental conditioning factors, highlighting the role of landform compartments and the mismatch between land use and agricultural suitability of soils. The local-scale analysis confirmed that the combination of sandy soils, intensive agricultural use, and gently undulating relief contributes to the intensification of erosive processes. The results provide a robust scientific basis for understanding the spatial distribution and conditioning factors of linear water erosion in the Cerrado biome of Mato Grosso, supporting multiscale environmental diagnoses and soil conservation strategies.