Compartmented spatial correlation of drainage patterns with morphometric characteristics of the Pirajibu-Mirim river watershed

Abstract

The knowledge of the physical aspects of the landscape at the hydrographic basin scale, such as relief, morphometry, and the interrelationships with the hydrological dynamics, make it possible to understand the drainage patterns and infer about the most environmentally vulnerable areas. Therefore, the study aimed to spatial correlation drainage patterns with the morphometric characteristics of the Pirajibu-Mirim river watershed and to identify which compartments are most vulnerable to anthropic intervention. Data processing was performed using geoprocessing using the roughness concentration index, horizontal and vertical curvature of the slopes. The morphometric parameters included the circularity ratio, compactness coefficient, form factor, drainage density, maintenance coefficient, and extension of the runoff surface. The morphophysiographic relationships between the sub-basins were performed based on a multivariate analysis of Principal Components and Analysis of Hierarchical Conglomerates. Results demonstrated that the sub-basins differ concerning the area and perimeter, form and drainage, and morphography (slopes and curvatures), and these aspects are related to drainage patterns. From the study, it was possible to obtain knowledge of the compartments of the Pirajibu-Mirim river watershed that need attention as to management actions and management because of their intrinsic physical characteristics.