Long-term Change in Ablation Area of Tropical Glaciers by Landsat Data

Glacier meltwater is one of the main water resources in the capital of Bolivia. To understand current situation of glacier decline is crucial for better water resources management. This study investigated temporal and spatial glacial area during the past three decades between 1984 and 2014. Object glaciers were Tuni, Condoriri, and Huayna Potosi West Glacier with Landsat images. Glacier-covered area by Tuni, Condoriri, and Huayna Potosi West Glacier diminished by 70%, 52%, and 50%, individually from 1984 to 2014. Second, we estimated a front altitude and an equilibrium line altitude for each glacier. Front altitudes for three glaciers rise rapidly after 2000. Finally, we evaluated long-term change in ablation area for selected glaciers. Results showed that accumulation area ratio (AAR) increased with decrease in ablation area and this led to decrease in water resources.