Hyperspectral remote sensing of salinity stress on red (Rhizophora mangle) and white (Laguncularia racemosa) mangroves on Galapagos Islands

Research demonstrates that hyperspectral remote sensing can effectively monitor salinity stress in red (Rhizophora mangle) and white (Laguncularia racemosa) mangroves on the Galápagos Islands. Using the photochemical reflectance index (PRI) as a proxy for photosynthetic rate, the study found strong correlations between PRI values and salinity gradients, suggesting that this method could be used to track mangrove forest growth on a regional scale. This approach offers a promising tool for large-scale conservation efforts by providing real-time data on how these critical coastal ecosystems respond to environmental stress.

Song, C., White, B. L., & Heumann, B. W. (2011). Hyperspectral remote sensing of salinity stress on red (Rhizophora mangle) and white (Laguncularia racemosa) mangroves on Galapagos Islands. Remote Sensing Letters, 2(3), 221–230. https://doi.org/10.1080/01431161.2010.514305