Kozlova A. Biodiversity estimation and mapping technique using multispectral space images

Ph.D. thesis is dedicated to development of the biodiversity estimation and mapping technique using the data of multispectral satellite observations. The purpose of the research is to develop the methodical basement for general assessment of biodiversity of large areas testing in the minimal time. For the attainment of the purpose declared the existing biodiversity assessment and mapping techniques have been analyzed, the influencing environmental factors operating by remote sensing have been determined, and the species richness was analyzed through the satellite data. The model of biodiversity index calculation based on fuzzy sets theory, which allows to formalize the expert estimations the biodiversity toward the environment factors interaction is proposed. On the basis of proposed model the algorithms for biodiversity estimation using low and medium spatial resolution multispectral space imagery are developed. To demonstrate the possibilities of developed technique, the biodiversity of the Crimean peninsula using low spatial resolution multispectral satellite data was estimated. Biodiversity of south part of Crimea using medium spatial resolution multispectral satellite data has been estimated. Recommendations for the application of the developed technique are proposed. The further researches in this field should be focused on biodiversity monitoring system improvement using high spatial resolution space imagery, and on the basis of long-term observations for detection of biodiversity changes tendencies in time and space.