RT Journal Article
T1 The nucleation and degradation of pothole wetlands by human-driven activities and climate during the quaternary in a semi-arid region (Southern Iberian Peninsula)
A1 Jiménez Bonilla, Alejandro
A1 Expósito Ramos, Inmaculada
A1 Gázquez-Sánchez, Fernando
A1 Yanes Conde, José Luis
A1 Rodríguez-Rodríguez, Miguel
K1 Wetland
K1 Climate Change
K1 Water Balance
K1 Human Impact
AB In this study, we selected a series of pothole wetlands to investigate their nucleation, evolution, and recent anthropogenic degradation in the Alcores Depression (AD), southern Iberian Peninsula, where over 100 closed watersheds containing shallow, ephemeral water bodies up to 2 hm2 have been identified. We surveyed the regional geological framework, utilized digital elevation models (DEMs), orthophotos, and aerial images since 1956. Moreover, we analyzed precipitation and temperature data in Seville from 1900 to 2024, collected hydrometeorological data since 1990 and modelled the water level evolution from 2002 to 2025 in a representative pothole in the area. Our observations indicate a flooded surface reduction by more than 90% from the 1950s to 2025. Climatic data reveal an increase in annual mean temperatures since 1960 and a sharp decline in annual precipitation since 2000. The AD’s inception due to tectonic isolation during the Quaternary favoured the formation of pothole wetlands in the floodplain. The reduction in the hydroperiod and wetland degradation was primarily due to agricultural expansion since 1950, which followed an increase in groundwater extraction and altered the original topography. Recently, decreased precipitation has exponentially accelerated the degradation and even the complete disappearance of many potholes. This study underscores the fragility of small wetlands in the Mediterranean basin and the critical role of human management in their preservation. Restoring these ecosystems could be a highly effective nature-based solution, especially in semi-arid climates like southern Spain. These prairie potholes are crucial for enhancing groundwater recharge, which is vital for maintaining water availability in regions with limited precipitation. By facilitating rainwater infiltration into the aquifer, recharge potholes increase groundwater levels. Additionally, they capture and store run-off during heavy rainfall, reducing the risk of flooding and soil erosion. Beyond their hydrological functions, these wetlands provide habitats that support biodiversity and promote ecological resilience, reinforcing the need for their protection and recovery.
PB MDPI
YR 2025
FD 2025-06-24
LK https://hdl.handle.net/10433/25495
UL https://hdl.handle.net/10433/25495
LA en
NO Jiménez-Bonilla, A., Expósito, I., Gázquez, F., Yanes, J. L., & Rodríguez-Rodríguez, M. (2025). The Nucleation and Degradation of Pothole Wetlands by Human-Driven Activities and Climate During the Quaternary in a Semi-Arid Region (Southern Iberian Peninsula). Geographies, 5(3), 27. https://doi.org/10.3390/geographies5030027
NO Departamento de Sistemas Físicos, Químicos y Naturales
DS RIO
RD Apr 27, 2026