Abstract
SUMMARY A technique of calculating aerial green biomass from spectral measurements in the red and near infrared bands is increasingly being applied in vegetation studies. It is fast, non-destructive and can be directly applied from aircraft or satellite mounted sensors to large areas. Literature data illustrating the potential of the approach refer sofar generally to rather ideal situations in low, open, herbaceous vegetation. Before general application can be recommended a body of reference including various situations should be available. The present contribution indicates some disturbing factors such as the presence of flowers or shade and evaluates the applicability of the technique for a number of vegetation types. Results of tests in 11 semi-natural vegetation types are presented, ranging in height from 30–150 cm and in cover from 20–100%. Measurements were made with – as later appeared – non-optimal equipment and no correction could be made for variation in incoming radiation. Multiple sampling at three to five dates between April and July resulted in correlation coefficient values of 0.96, 0.95, 0.92, 0.91, 0.91, 0.88, 0.85, 0.82, 0.67, and -0.06 (in the last case Holcus lanatus dominant) for aerial biomass dry and the IR/R ratio. These relatively high values are critically examined. The data provide evidence for a rather general applicability of the technique, but also for a cautios approach and a mandatory calibration per (floristically and/or physiognomically) different vegetation type.
Highlights
Estimates of the amount of above-ground vegetation, referred to as aerial biomass or standing crop, are used in many kinds of vegetation studies
Multiplesampling at three to five dates between April and July resulted in correlation coefficient values of 0.96, 0.95, 0.92. 0.91, 0.91, 0,88, 0.85. 0.82, 0.67, and -0.06 for aerial biomass dry and the ratio
The use of spectral reflectance measurements for aerial biomass estimation seems feasible in a variety of structurally and floristically different vegetation types
Summary
A technique of calculating aerial green biomass from spectral measurements in the red and near infrared bands is increasingly being applied in vegetation studies. It is fast, non-destructive and can be directly applied from aircraft or satellite mounted sensorsto large areas. Literature data illustrating the potential of the approach refer sofar generally to rather ideal situations in low, open, herbaceous vegetation. 0.82, 0.67, and -0.06 (in the last case Holcus lanatus dominant) for aerial biomass dry and the ratio. These relatively high values are critically examined. The data provide evidence for a rather generalapplicability of the technique, and for a cautios approach and a mandatory calibration per (floristically and/or physiognomically) different vegetation type
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
