Abstract

PALACIOS-CARRILLO, Alondra Lizbeth; SANDOVAL-GARCIA, Rufino; FLORES-LOPEZ, Celestino  and  MENDEZ-GONZALEZ, Jorge. Loss of forest ecosystems in the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve (1994-2023). Rev. mex. de cienc. forestales [online]. 2025, vol.16, n.92, pp.28-53.  Epub Feb 06, 2026. ISSN 2007-1132.  https://doi.org/10.29298/rmcf.v16i92.1524.

The Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve (known as RBMM by its Spanish acronym) is a key area for the hibernation of the monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus), as it plays a significant role in its migratory and reproductive cycle. However, this ecosystem faces substantial threats due to increased anthropogenic activities and the effects of climate change ―situations that jeopardize both the species' continued existence in Mexico and the reserve's biodiversity. The objective of this study was to evaluate the loss of forest ecosystems in the RBMM during the 1994-2023 period, using a multitemporal analysis of high-resolution satellite images. The results revealed that 6 389 ha of forest cover had been lost in the RBMM by 2023; reductions by vegetation type were 87 % for oak forest, 69 % for pine forest, and 42 % for mesophilic mountain forest, compared to their extent in 1994. These findings show a worrying decline in forest cover, which compromises the integrity of the monarch butterfly's habitat and highlights the need to implement effective conservation strategies.

Keywords : Multitemporal analysis; sacred fir forest; conservation; Danaus plexippus L.; illegal logging; environmental services.

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