Bio-optical and biogeochemical parameterization of IOP-traceable, hyperspectral Rrs datasets for transitional water applications

Abstract

The diversity of phytoplankton communities and the robustness of ecosystem stability over annual and interannual time scales is not well characterized in South Africa. Extensive optical & biogeochemical field measurements are being collected in the HyperCAAT dataset will facilitate the development of new and improved algorithms and indicators for upcoming international hyperspectral earth observing satellite missions like NASA PACE. Identifying instability in intact and transformed aquatic ecosystems enables targeted management interventions. This study will contribute to improved capabilities for water quality and ecosystem health monitoring from space. This is ongoing work. The Hyperspectral Capabilities across Atmospheric, Aquatic and Terrestrial Domains (HyperCAAT) project incorporates in- and above-water radiometry, hyperspectral satellite and airborne match-ups to parameterize an extensive IOP-traceable spectral library. Investigations using this dataset will identify tipping points in Rrs signal change with respect to algal biomass (eutrophication indicators) and to evaluate signal sensitivity requirements for distinguishing algal types as well as differentiation from suspended non-algal particulate, aquatic vegetation, and bottom effects. In support of the NASA hyperspectral imaging campaign in the Greater Cape Floristic Region of the Western Cape (i.e. BioSCAPE). This study focuses on the highly dynamic, optically complex coastal and inland water bodies of the Western Cape, and features broad diversity in sites and in situ parameters.