Remote sensing of coral reef processes

Abstract

Digital remote sensing of coral reefs dates to the first Landsat mission of the mid-1970s. Early studies utilized moderate-spatial-resolution satellite broadband multispectral image data and focused on reef geomorphology. Technological advances have since led to development of airborne narrow-band hyperspectral sensors, airborne hydrographic lidar systems, and commercial high-spatial-resolution satellite broadband multispectral imagers. High quality remote sensing data have become widely available, and this has spurred investigations by the reef science and management communities into the technology. Studies utilizing remote sensing data range from predictions of reef fish diversity to multidecadal assessment of reef habitat decline. Fundamental issues remain, both in remote sensing science and in specific coral reef applications. Nevertheless, investigators are increasingly turning to remote sensing for the unique perspective it affords of reef systems. © 2011 Springer Science+Business Media B.V.