Quantifying Dieback in a Vulnerable Population of Eucalyptus macrorhyncha Using Remote Sensing

A disjunct population of red stringybark (Eucalyptus macrorhyncha) trees in South Australia is experiencing increasing amounts dieback. Because the considered vulnerable to extinction, we investigated spatiotemporal vegetation changes, quantified extent dieback, and determined how topography influences dieback using aerial satellite imagery. Classification health status hyperspectral imagery indicated that 37% (accuracy = 0.87 Kappa) was unhealthy potentially When correlating this classification with a digital terrain model (DTM), aspect amount solar radiation had strongest relationship presence vegetation. PlanetScope satellite-derived, spectral index-based analysis 7% experienced negative changes during five-year period (2017–2022), positive (9.5%) noted on pole-facing slopes. Therefore, our integrated remote sensing approach documented dynamics suggesting it could be applied other studies. Topographical aspects exposed high-solar were particularly demonstrated some recovery between droughts. The influence maps can used guide future management restoration population.