Mapping European Spruce Bark Beetle Infestation at Its Early Phase Using Gyrocopter-Mounted Hyperspectral Data and Field Measurements

The prolonged drought of recent years combined with the steadily increasing bark beetle infestation (Ips typographus) is causing enormous damage in Germany’s spruce forests. This preliminary study investigates whether early by (green attack) can be detected using indices based on airborne spatial high-resolution (0.3 m) hyperspectral data and field spectrometer measurements. In particular, a new index has been defined compared other common for detection. It shows very high overall accuracy (OAA = 98.84%) when validated data. Field measurements long-term validation second area serve robustness transferability to areas. comparison commonly used indices, ability detect larger proportion infested spruces green attack phase (60% against 20% indices). confirms potential red-edge domain distinguish at an stage. Overall, our great forest preservation strategies aimed detection order mitigate outbreaks.