Received: 14 October 2008 / Accepted: 25 November 2009 / Published online: 11 December 2009 | Elhadi Adam · Onisimo Mutanga · Denis Rugege
This article provides a comprehensive review of the application of multispectral and hyperspectral remote sensing in identifying and mapping wetland vegetation, as well as estimating its biochemical and biophysical parameters. The authors highlight the importance of wetland vegetation in ecological functions and the benefits of remote sensing for sustainable management. They discuss the challenges and research needs, emphasizing the need for a deep understanding of the interaction between electromagnetic radiation and wetland vegetation, appropriate spatial and spectral resolution, and suitable processing techniques. The review covers the spectral characteristics of wetland vegetation, the use of broad- and narrow-bands for discrimination, and the estimation of water content, biomass, and leaf area index. The authors also review previous studies and identify gaps in the literature, particularly in the specific application of hyperspectral and multispectral remote sensing for wetland vegetation. The study aims to provide a practical and scientific overview to guide future research and management efforts in wetland conservation.This article provides a comprehensive review of the application of multispectral and hyperspectral remote sensing in identifying and mapping wetland vegetation, as well as estimating its biochemical and biophysical parameters. The authors highlight the importance of wetland vegetation in ecological functions and the benefits of remote sensing for sustainable management. They discuss the challenges and research needs, emphasizing the need for a deep understanding of the interaction between electromagnetic radiation and wetland vegetation, appropriate spatial and spectral resolution, and suitable processing techniques. The review covers the spectral characteristics of wetland vegetation, the use of broad- and narrow-bands for discrimination, and the estimation of water content, biomass, and leaf area index. The authors also review previous studies and identify gaps in the literature, particularly in the specific application of hyperspectral and multispectral remote sensing for wetland vegetation. The study aims to provide a practical and scientific overview to guide future research and management efforts in wetland conservation.