Geodiversity and geoheritage in the natural landscapes of Taboleiro Grande (RN, Brazil)

Abstract

The state of Rio Grande do Norte (RN), located in the Northeast region of Brazil, presents remarkable scenic and geoscientific potential, from the coast to the semi-arid region, related to Geodiversity and Geoheritage. However, much of this wealth remains unknown or scarcely explored in specialized literature, especially in municipalities located in the western portion of the state. The objective of this study is to conduct the geoheritage inventory of the municipality of Taboleiro Grande, situated in the Upper West Potiguar, aiming at its sustainable use through Geotourism. To achieve this goal, bibliographic and methodological research was carried out, thematic maps were compiled, fieldwork was conducted, and inventory forms were applied to identify the Geological-Geomorphological Sites of Interest (LIGGs). As a result, five LIGGs were identified: Lajedo do Sossego, Pedra Ferrada, Lajedo Canaã, Barragem do Fervor, and Cachoeira do Talhado. These landforms hold potential not only for tourism but also for the promotion of Geoscience education and Geoconservation in the regional context.