Effects of highland land-use over lowlands of the Brazilian Pantanal

Human activities in the highlands alter the usual ecohydrological dynamics of the Pantanal wetland in the lowlands. These alterations can be noted by historical observation and identification of key processes that change the normal ecohydrology in the highlands and lowlands. Depending on land-use scenarios in the near future, the ongoing changes in the highlands may have positive or deleterious effects on the Pantanal's carrying capacity and resilience for providing ecosystem services such as nutrient retention and recycling, water purification, fish stocks, among others. This article seeks to summarize recent information to clarify, guide and provide support for the pursuit of realistic scenarios and induce scientific research and government policies that reconcile sustainable development in the highlands and lowlands, in line with the conservation of the Pantanal wetland.