|
|
|
Identification and quantification of changes in mangrove forest using Remote Sensing - A case study near Kakinada Bay, Andhra Pradesh, India
Dr Sridhar Vadlapudi
Research Student, Center for Environmental Remote Sensing,
Chiba University, 1-33, Yayoi-Cho, Inage-Ku,
Chiba, 263-8522, Japan
Email: vadlapudi@hotmail.com
1.1 Introduction
Mangroves are a group of salt tolerant plant species that occur in the tropical and subtropical intertidal estuarine regions, sheltered coastline and creeks and are dominated by partly submerged selerophyllous plant species that are taxinomically unrelated. Mangroves constitute a dynamic ecosystem with a complex association of species both of floras and fauna of terrestrial and aquatic systems and the vegetation presents an evergreen type with varied life forms.
The four major roles of mangroves:
- Mangroves help in soil formation by trapping debris.
- They serve as sieve for rich organic soil washed down through river systems into sea.
- Provide appropriate ecosystem and refuge for fish, marine invertebrates, morlusca and birds.
- They contribute detritus enhancing the productivity of the ecosystem.
1.2 Scope And Objectives Of the Study
Satellite Remote sensing has been operational for nearly two decades. However, with rapid improvement in spatial and spectral resolution of data obtained in visible and near infrared region and availability of data in microwave regions, there is a need for continued research in the field of aquatic environment from satellite data. Besides, there is number of Image processing and analytical tools like Geographic Information System are available. GIS provides the opportunity to overlay different layers of information obtained from satellites and other sources and optimally extract the required information.
The subject selected for the study is with reference to the following themes:
- To utilize the Orbital Remote Sensing data for monitoring change in the mangrove Environment and its ecology.
The specific objectives under these sub themes which contribute to the complete and comprehensive assessment of the mangrove environment of selected area are:
- To map the mangroves and identify the parameters that have affected the mangrove and related ecosystem on 1:50,000 scale using Orbital Remote Sensing data
- To study the landuse pattern by analyzing maps prepared from Remote Sensing data.
- To apply digital image pre-processing techniques in order to improve discernability of features relate to mangrove forest on the imagery and develop a methodology for digital image processing.
- To map the actual extent of the mangroves and delineate changes with reference to the past data and estimate the environmental damage to Coringa sanctuary, located at northern part of the study area.
- To present the results and data generated by maps, charts, tables and tests in the form of a report which will serve as ready reference for any developmental programme.
- To assist planners, decision - makers in integrated coastal zone planning and management, as well as to make the generated information to other target groups.
|
|
|