Abstract
AbstractA concurrent qualitative-quantitative assessment of geodiversity was
carried out within the Midriff Islands, a priority region within the Gulf of
California that stands out for its geological, ecological, and cultural importance.
This study is carried out on the coast of central Sonora, where the Comcaac
indigenous community has lived for more than a thousand years imbuing their
territory with material and symbolic values. The objective of this study was to
highlight the elements of geodiversity and contribute to the management and
conservation strategies that are carried out in the area. The qualitative approach
consisted of detailed fieldwork and a descriptive-documentary assessment of the
geodiversity attributes of the study area, which led to the preparation of
geomorphological and geological maps. The quantitative approach consisted of the
elaboration of a geodiversity index map using an adapted methodology that considered
some sites of cultural value due to their relationship with abiotic natural elements
of geodiversity. As a result of both approaches, several localities and zones of
high to medium geodiversity were identified mainly located along the mountain ranges
and the coast. Coastal areas, although not having the highest geodiversity, could be
considered the most relevant in terms of geological heritage and geoconservation,
because they comprise a variety of rocky outcrops and extraordinary landforms with
scientific interest, as well as cultural and aesthetic values. In addition, the
concurrent assessment was favorable to recognize localities where geoconservation
and sustainable use strategies, such as geotourism, can be implemented.
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC