How the image resolution affected their ability to image HAB.The measure of Sentinel 2, Landsat 8 and Planetscope satellites’ ability to detect HAB.The research group aimed to answer the following questions through its analysis of the satellite images: Publicly available spectral data were deliberately chosen so that the results would generally apply to all small or medium reservoirs. These images are from three satellites, including Landsat 8, Sentinel 2, and Planetscope. Professor Johnson and her colleagues set out to find the feasibility of accurately detecting HAB in smaller water bodies by analyzing satellite imagery. Small and medium-sized water reservoirs still need in-depth investigations regarding HAB. Machine learning methods have also been implemented to analyze large water body images. Semi-empirical algorithms and semi-analytical approaches have been widely applied to large water bodies such as lakes. Satellites have calibrated spectrometers onboard that image the spectral characteristics of various regions on earth as they orbit.ĭepending on the wavelengths associated with HAB images, algorithms are developed to study the data. Data recorded by satellites provide spectral information on many samples, including HAB on water bodies. The urgency of the climate crisis has initiated many collaborative government efforts to monitor earth's atmosphere and surface using satellites. Rapidly Identifying Harmful Blue-Green Algae with Mass Spectroscopy.Monitoring for Taste and Odor Algae with the FlowCam.LumiGrow Offers LED Lighting Solution to Indoor Farm in Florida.By matching the spectroscopic details of the acquired data to known spectral bands of toxins, an image of HAB at particular locations can be analyzed. Remote sensing relies on optical interrogation to map out the pollutants in a sample from a distance. Remote sensing has emerged as the most suitable detection tool for HAB. The dynamics of HAB can change spatially with time, depending on its exposed conditions. Knowledge of the evolution of HAB in a particular region is critical to taking informed actions to manage the threats posed. Regions where such algae have accumulated are referred to as harmful algae blooms. In some extreme cases, it can lead to human fatality. Some of these webs of algae produce toxins hazardous to fish, animals, and birds that inhabit the same space. Under unmonitored, conducive conditions, algae can grow out of control. They range in size from microscopic to single-celled botanical elements to hefty seaweeds. Image Credit: Alen thien/ What are Harmful Algae Blooms?Īlgae are primary plants that make up the foundation of food colonies. Study: Remote sensing to detect harmful algal blooms in inland waterbodies. Data from Landsat 8, Sentinel 2, and Planetscope satellites were used.
They presented a pre-proof edition of their findings in the recent issue of Science of The Total Environment. Using spectroscopic data gathered by three satellites, Professor Fiona Johnson’s research group at the Water Research Center, University of New South Wales, has analyzed HAB in small and medium inlet water bodies.
Remote detection of harmful algae blooms (HAB) has become increasingly important due to their detrimental effects on surrounding living organisms. By Ilamaran Sivarajah Reviewed by Laura Thomson