Physiographic Aspects of Conceição do Coité

Adino Mizuil Hiotung

September 1, 2023

1 Introduction
Conceição do Coité municipality is located in the subregion known as the
agreste, a transitional zone between the Zona da Mata and the northeastern
Sertão. (Reference for classification needed). The ecosystem in this region is
known as Caatinga, characterized by sparse trees with twisted trunks, adapted
to the long periods of drought and high temperatures typical of the semi-arid
climate of the region. This climate is characterized by low rainfall between 300
mm and 800 mm and the occurrence of two well-defined seasons: dry and rainy.
As for the fauna, it is characterized by low animal density and a small number
of endemic species.

2 Geographical Features
In the studied area, there is a predominance of small rural properties primarily
dedicated to cattle raising and sisal cultivation, which appear to be the main
economic activities in the region. In addition to the small properties, there is a
significant number of villages scattered throughout the region, such as the Morro
village within the mapped area and Bandiaçu in the vicinity, among others.
The road infrastructure in the region is precarious, with the only asphalted
road being BA-409. The properties in the region are connected by small dirt
roads. Access to piped water is limited, apparently serving only a few residences
in the studied area. Electricity is available in villages and nearby properties but
absent in more distant areas to the north. The primary means of transportation
seem to be motorcycles and animals. There is a significant number of ponds and
cisterns that supply some residences, with a water treatment plant on BA-409
that provides the region with water via tanker trucks. All drainage systems
encountered during mapping were dry.

3 Economic Activities
To the north of the region lies the largest gold mine in the state of Bahia,
Fazenda Brasileiro (data about the mine needs to be researched). Therefore, the

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region is a target for mineral exploration projects for gold. These occurrences
are related to the terrene of the Greenstone Belt of the Itapicuru River and
are associated with the genetic model of the Lode Orogeny type. According
to reports from local residents, the region had previously been the subject of
exploration projects by the Vale company, but no exploitable ore deposits were
found.

4 Conclusion
In conclusion, Conceição do Coité, located in the agreste subregion of Brazil’s
northeastern semi-arid region, features unique physiographic aspects character-
ized by the Caatinga ecosystem and a predominantly rural landscape. The
region’s economic activities primarily revolve around cattle raising, sisal culti-
vation, and potential mineral exploration. Despite challenges such as limited
infrastructure and access to resources, the area holds significance due to its
connection to the mining industry and the natural beauty of its semi-arid envi-
ronment.