Satellite Tool Map Disappeared Seaweed

A groundbreaking algorithm that automatically maps and tracks important seagrass grasslands in space can transform global coastal ecosystem conservation efforts. Scientists at Xiamen University and Tulane University have developed a new approach that overcomes the long-term challenges of monitoring these critical but threatened underwater habitats.

The new system separates seagrass from other coastal vegetation by integrating optical and SAR images of intertidal seagrass grasslands (Amoss). The study, published in the Journal of Remote Sensing, demonstrates the effectiveness of the algorithm at 15 global locations spanning the tropical to subpolar regions.

“Our Amoss algorithm marks advances in seagrass monitoring. By automating the mapping process, we can now conduct seagrass changes globally with high accuracy and efficiency, which is crucial for coastal ecosystems facing climate change,” the research team said.

Unlike previous methods that required manual sample selection, Amoss runs automatically, which is practical for large-scale monitoring programs.

Seagrass grasslands represent the most valuable but fragile ecosystem on Earth. They store a lot of carbon, provide critical habitat for marine species and support coastal fisheries that conserve millions of people. Despite its importance, seaweed monitoring still lags behind other coastal environments such as mangroves and salt marshes.

Traditional mapping methods fight seagrass because it has similar spectral characteristics to neighboring vegetation and is affected by tidal changes. Amoss overcomes these limitations by identifying key biophysical differences: seagrass lacks the upright structure of mangroves and salt marshes, giving it unique radar characteristics.

The algorithm achieved an impressive 84% accuracy in the test sites, and performed well even in complex coastal landscapes. Unlike previous methods that required manual sample selection, Amoss runs automatically, which is practical for large-scale monitoring programs.

As climate change and human activities continue to threaten coastal ecosystems, the technology provides scientists and conservation managers with a powerful new tool to detect changes in seaweed distribution before irreversible damage occurs. The next border may involve integrating this approach into early warning systems that can help protect these underwater grasslands that are critical to global marine health and food security.

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