Remote sensing analysis of submerged coral reefs: applications for integrated coastal management in Fiji

Current approaches to mapping submerged coral ecosystems by remote sensing techniques is largely confined to the identification of general reef features in shallow tropical waters. Technical difficulties in compensating for the attenuation of radiance through the water column, as well as an incomplete understanding about the specific spectral features of coral and other substrates under normal and stressed conditions has limited mapping and assessment procedures. This paper reports on recent developments in mapping submerged coral assemblages in Fiji using satellite imagery and in situ field measurements. An accurate and replicable procedure is proposed to quantify the spectral response of various corals and other submerged substrates to determine biodiversity and stress indicators for mapping and assessing coral ecosystems at site specific and regional locations. Applications of the approach in establishing baseline information, assessing environmental change and managing linked systems within an integrated coastal management framework are highlighted.