Mapping large-scale distribution of submerged aquatic vegetation coverage using remote sensing

This study investigated the potential of using remote sensing for mapping and monitoring of submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) on a large scale. The spectral characteristics of SAV with varied coverage were measured using a portable spectroradiometer on a man-made lake at the Chongming International Wetland Park, Shanghai, China. A good relationship between the coverage of SAV and their field spectral characteristics was established and the reflectance of SAV increased with its increasing coverage. A regression analysis was then carried out between the coverage and the reflectance at the wavelengths of four QuickBird bands. After making an atmospheric correction from a synchronous QuickBird image for the study site, the image digital number (DN) was converted into the ground reflectance. The reflectance image was then deduced into a distribution map of SAV coverage by using the results of the regression functions between the coverage of SAV and the reflectance rate measured in situ. An accuracy assessment indicated that this approach could be used to quickly monitor the distribution and growth situation of SAV. The implications of this observation, in terms of the ability of remote sensing to estimate and monitor the distribution and dynamics of SAV on a large scale are discussed.