Can anthropization govern the water and carbon dynamics? A case study of peatlands in Serra do Espinhaço Meridional, Brazil

Peatlands are ecosystems formed mostly by organic matter and water and constitute a particular type of free aquifer. They perform important hydrological functions by storing excess water during rainfall events, contributing to the baseflow of its rivers throughout the year. Its degradation affects the water table dynamics and influences the decomposition of organic matter content and the release of carbon into its waters. The water retention capacity may also be compromised and thus reduce the volume of water available downstream, especially in the dry season. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of anthropic interference on variations in groundwater level, water storage, and carbon flow in two tropical mountain peatlands, located at the head of the Araçuaí River, in Serra do Espinhaço Meridional, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. Level meters were installed in groundwater wells distributed on peatland zones located in a protected area (Natural Park) (Protected—TP) and outside the conservation unit (Anthropized—TA). Data were analyzed considering the daily rainfall recorded by an automatic weather station installed in the study area. From the data on precipitation and water table level variation, the specific yield (Sy) in the two peatlands was calculated. The observed flows and the mean monthly Sy on each groundwater well were correlated and their significance was verified using the t-test (p