Evaluating and zoning of ecosystem services in mangrove forests of Khamir and Qeshm

Considering the fact that the supply and demand of ecosystem services may be geographically different, therefore, the management of this spatial heterogeneity requires the evaluation and zoning of ecosystem services in the form of spatial maps. Accordingly, in the present study, the spatial distribution of ecosystem services in the mangrove forests of Khamir and Qeshm was evaluated and zoned. According to the results in this area, cultural services have the most points among the available services due to the high entertainment value. Therefore, among the examined criteria, leisure and nature tourism have more demand for spending leisure time and tourism due to its pristine landscapes, aesthetic values, education, recreation, etc. Likewise, among provisioning ‎ecosystem services, traditional fishing (Moshta) is scattered in most areas of this region within the main tributaries and estuaries and has the largest supply in the area.  This ecosystem service is important among the residents of the area, the reasons for which are the livelihood and economic dependence of the local people on this service. Finally, the prioritization of ecosystem services distribution in the studied areas demonstrated that the most services offered and with the highest priority in the area are related to cultural services. In this service, the highest priority is also given to the standard of recreation and nature tourism on the high class, and other services, including aesthetics, sense of place, heritage value, spiritual and religious value, education, and inspiration, are placed in the next priorities. Accordingly, zones that have a high density of mangrove habitats also have a high supply of cultural services. Therefore, examining the spatial distribution of ecosystem services through the evaluation and zoning of these valuable resources can help to correct the plan and protection of natural ecosystems to meet human needs.