Aplicación de un sistema de información geográfica en la cartografía temática y clasificación geomorfológica de los sistemas fluviales en Asturias

Abstract

Geographic Information System (GIS) manipulation of an extensive geographical, geomorphological, lithological and biological database from the rivers of Asturias (NW Spain) has allowed a straight linear, areal and shape quantification. The reselect, cross and combine GIS operation has allowed the development of a simple five-order river classification, which is based on the lithology of the river bed, alluvial deposits, channel morphology, type and extent of gorge sections. The degree of human intervention, riverside vegetation, hydrology of the drainage basin and river fauna complement the classification, but they are not suitable to define a new one because these factors can change suddenly. This classification and the current data base are designed to be integrated with each other and with incoming new data. This allows the easy production of different thematic maps, using the GIS, which can be used for river studies and specific river management.