Jülich Plant Science Seminars (JPSS) - Arko Lucieer - "Bridging the scale gap – Advancing high-resolution biodiversity monitoring with hyperspectral and lidar drone technologies" - Tasmania, Australia - 2nd of October 2024
Invitation to the Jülich Plant Science Seminar (JPSS) - Arko Lucieer
Title: Bridging the scale gap – Advancing high-resolution biodiversity monitoring with hyperspectral and lidar drone technologies
Speaker: Arko Lucieer
Affiliation: TerraLuma Research Group – Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
Abstract:
Drone remote sensing offers a transformative approach to capturing ultrahigh-resolution ecological data, enabling precise and scalable biodiversity assessments. By bridging the scale gap between ground-based measurements and broad-scale satellite observations, drones provide unparalleled insight into fine-scale ecosystem dynamics.
This presentation will highlight three recent projects leveraging drone technology for biodiversity monitoring. The first project applies hyperspectral and lidar sensors to quantify functional diversity across several Australian forested ecosystems. This work integrates advanced trait-based metrics to assess the richness and divergence of canopy structures and physiological traits, revealing spatial variability that drives ecosystem processes.
The second project focuses on using shortwave-infrared imaging spectroscopy to map water stress indicators in Australian forests, with a specific emphasis on leaf water potential. This indicators serve as early-warning signs of drought vulnerability, offering a non-invasive method for tracking plant water status and its role in ecosystem resilience.
The third project operationalises drone-based monitoring of Australia’s ecosystems through a national-scale program, enabling the collection of ultrahigh-resolution data to enhance calibration and validation of satellite products. This initiative will provide critical data for tracking ecosystem health, detecting environmental change, and supporting long-term conservation efforts.
These projects collectively demonstrate the growing capacity of drone remote sensing to deliver detailed, actionable insights into plant function and biodiversity, contributing to more effective ecosystem management and monitoring.