Research Purpose:

The main objective is to identify and classify the Ecosystem Services (ES) offered in the main geosites and geotouristic attractions of Serra da Freita, located in the territory of the Arouca Geopark. As secondary objectives, the investigation aims to highlight, mainly, the relationship and interconnection between the ES of geodiversity elements (abiotic) and the biodiversity elements (biotic) present in the evaluated sites.

Methodology:

The study area focuses on Serra da Freita, a part of great environmental relevance in the Arouca Geopark. The CICES (Common International Classification of Ecosystem Services) classification was used, which categorizes ES into provision (PES), regulation ES (RES) and cultural (CES). For each geosite or attraction evaluated in the field, the potential ES were identified, as well as the existing visitor support infrastructure at the site.

Findings:

The CES were the most present. The geosites of Frecha da Mizarela, Marmitas de Gigante do Caima and Praia Fluvial de Albergaria da Serra were the places with the highest ES offers, in which CES (scenic beauty, leisure and recreation), provisioning PES (water supply, genetic bank) and regulations RES (erosion control processes and water quality). The Pedras Parideiras complex, a rare geological phenomenon in the world, is responsible for the largest number of visits in Serra da Freita, being classified as a CES.

Originality/Value:

The discussion about ES in geopark territories, mainly associating biotic and abiotic components, still lacks attention from the academic community. It is expected that this study will promote the dissemination of ES offered in geopark territories, aiming at greater appreciation, recognition and protection of these areas, reinforcing the role of these territories in maintaining geodiversity and biodiversity, as well as promoting health and good -being human.

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