Landscape changes based on spectral responses allow showing plant cover changes through
diversity, composition, and ecological connectivity. The spatial and temporal vegetation dynamics of
the Bijagual Massif from 1986 to 2021 were analyzed as a measure of ecological integrity, conservation,
and territory. The covers identified were high open forest (Hof), dense grassland of non-wooded
mainland (Dgnm), a mosaic of pastures and crops (Mpc), lagoons (Lag), and bare and degraded lands
(Bdl). The Bijagual Massif has 8574.1 ha. In 1986, Dgnm occupied 42.6% of the total area, followed
by Mpc (32.8%) and Hof (24.5%); by 2000, Mpc and Hof increased (43.7 and 28.1%, respectively),
while Dgnm decreased (28%); by 2021, Dgnm was restricted to the northeastern zone and continued
to decrease (25.2%), Mpc occupied 52.9%, Hof 21.7% and Bdl 0.1%. Of the three fractions of the
connectivity probability index, only dPCintra and dPCflux contribute to ecological connectivity. Hof
and Dgnm show patches with biota habitat quality and availability. Between 1986 and 2021, Dgnm
lost 1489 ha (41%) and Hof 239.5 ha (11%). Mpc replaced various covers (1722.2 ha; 38%) in 2021.
Bijagual has a valuable biodiversity potential limited by Mpc. Territorial planning and sustainable
agroecological and ecotourism proposals are required due to the context of the ecosystems.
