Predicting the Distribution of Mangrove Forests through Random Forest Algorithm by Combining Spectral Features and DEM Data

Abstract

Using satellite data and machine learning-based classification methods for mangrove forest identification has gained popularity due to their effectiveness in producing high accuracy. Therefore, this research developed a random forest classification model using various dataset combinations representing spectral and topographical aspects to identify mangrove forests in Segara Anakan, Cilacap. We used the Sentinel-2 imagery acquired in 2022. Two types of digital elevation model (DEM) data were utilized, namely the National Digital Elevation Model (DEMNAS) and Multi-Error-Removed Improved-Terrain DEM (MERIT DEM). Another critical dataset used is the Normalized Difference Moisture Index (NDMI), derived from the ratio between near-infrared (NIR) and shortwave-infrared (SWIR) bands. The classification method used is the random forest algorithm on six different dataset combinations, including IMAGE, IMAGE+NDMI, IMAGE+DEMNAS, IMAGE+MERIT DEM, IMAGE+NDMI+DEMNAS, and IMAGE+NDMI+ MERIT DEM. The results showed that the combination of Image+DEMNAS and Image+NDMI+DEMNAS datasets was able to identify the mangrove forests more optimally. Incorporating DEM data alongside IMAGE and NDMI datasets resulted in a remarkable level of accuracy in mangrove forest mapping, exceeding 90%. DEM data has a very important role in increasing the classification accuracy of mangrove forests using the random forest algorithm.