Estimation of the dynamics of floating islands in the territory of Sreburna Lake, situated in the territory of Bulgaria, using aerospace and GPS data in the period 1979 – 2005

Abstract

In this paper we describe the dynamics of the floating islands in Sreburna Lake using remote sensing methods and aerospace information in the period 1979–2005. These floating islands represent specific habitats of flying reed in places with greater water depths currently is found only in Sreburna Lake in Bulgaria and in the Danube Delta in Romania. These floating islands are characterized by an active movement during the years, which is caused mainly by the annual fluctuations of the lake's water level. Significant movement is observed at a high water level and high winds, which influence the island's flora and fauna. The purpose of this paper is to analyse this dynamics, which will be helpful for making an adequate decision for a better management of the reserve and preservation of these floating islands with minimum impact on the native flora and fauna.