Physical factors, distribution and present land-use of terraces in the Tramuntana Mountain Range

Abstract

[eng] We have studied the present-day spatial distribution of terraced lands and their current uses in the main mountainous area of Mallorca. A pattern of physical factors affecting the terraces has been established; the greatest significance belongs to lithology, slope and altitude. The process of land degradation and the transitional process of conversion to vegetation-covered land has been quantified. This conversion has affected up to 25 % of the terraced lands during the last 25 years.