2.3 Objective 1

Identify appropriate remote sensing data and applications for mapping of mangrove hydrogeomorphology

Hypothesis: Remote sensing applications for mapping of mangrove hydrogeomorphology exist, but are not yet being employed to understand mangrove stand dynamics

Rationale: Although the academic literature reflects a long history of classifying mangrove hydrogeomorphology, limited quantification of mechanistic hydrogeomorphological processes has been undertaken. Quantification of hydrogeomorphological processes is critical for mangrove conservation in the face of global change, and may be performed effectively through remote sensing. While remote sensing of mangrove ecosystems is common, it has largely been limited to mappings of vegetation. Given the critical importance of sedimentary and hydrological conditions for mangrove ecosystem health, the lack of research on remote sensing of mangrove hydrogeomorphology represents a key knowledge gap that I seek to fill. Furthermore, many of the ecosystem services provided by mangroves relate directly to hydrogeomorphological processes – for example, shoreline stabilization or promotion of sediment accretion. To better monitor shifts in key hydrogeomorphological processes and their impacts on mangrove health, it is important to assess the potential opportunities and limitations of remote sensing applications as they exist today.

Methods: This chapter reviews the present state of knowledge in employing remote sensing to quantify and monitor hydrogeomorphological processes in mangroves. Should the literature be sparse, I will examine the use of remote sensing to understand hydrogeomorphology in wetland ecosystems more broadly. In doing so, I will identify key components of mangrove hydrogeomorphology that may be quantified or monitored, as well as look at potential remote sensing applications that exist today as well as those that will be available in the near-term future.