Abstract. The aim of this contribution is mapping and analysing of biotopes sensitivity in Antakya urban city with its surroundings. The three objectives were: (1) to identify the biotope types which display the structural characteristics of the study area, (2) to map the biotopes using object-oriented classification and (3) to determine sensitivity of these biotopes using rarity and reestablishment of research area. The study mainly carried out in two stages: the first one determination of biotope types using information from field surveys and aerial images; the second stage determination of biotope sensitivity to human disturbance. The sensitivity assessment based on two parameters; the rarity and the re-establishment ability of biotopes. Based on sensitivity results, 1.581 ha of the research area -forest, river banks and river and banks-is very sensitive, 454,6 ha of the research area -cemetery, settlement with site, and maquie-of land sensitive.

Iskenderun Bay is situated in the Eastern Mediterranean Region of Turkey which is important area for the biodiversity. Iskenderun Bay coastal zone of Turkey, especially Burnaz coastal dunes, are very rich biotopes. Unfortunately, these dunes are threatened by several land uses. The aim of this study is to monitor the coastal dunes between 1995 and 2015 and prediction of potential environmental effects because of land use changes. There are several methods for monitoring; in this study we used biotope mapping. Biotope maps were created for the two periods and the two maps were compared to determine changes in these dunes. As a result of this study, a few suggestions were presented on the ecological approach to maintain sustainability.

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Aim : Methodology :Results : Interpretation :The aim of the study was to analyze biotopes sensitivity in Samandağ coastal zone in Mediterranean coastal region of Turkey. The study was carried out to map the biotopes using object-oriented classification and to determine sensitivity of these biotopes using rareness and re-establishment ability.The study was performed with the help of remote sensing and geographic information system in three stages, i.e., obtaining data, creating map of biotopes using object-oriented classification using ALOS AVNIR imagery assisted with field verification and determination of biotope sensitivity to human disturbance. The sensitivity assessment was based on two parameters, i.e., rareness and reestablishment ability of biotopes.As a result of classification, biotope types were divided as cultural areas and semi-natural areas. Cultural areas; commercial area, settlement (garden houses, multi-story), protected area, agriculture (annual), horticulture, semi-natural areas; forest, bare rock, coastal dunes, dry streambed, river banks, meadow, shrubs, wetland meadow. The results showed that the majority of biotopes in Samandağ coastal zone were either very sensitive or sensitive to human disturbance. Agricultural activities and construction on the coastal zone have threatened the wildlife, especially species of Caretta caretta and Chelonia mydas and some of the endangered plants.The wise use of coastal resources and reduction of anthropogenic pressure is possible through planning based on ecological data integrated of social and economic system. only the comprehensive plan of action could help to protect these dunes