Estimation of Leaf Area Index in Dwarf Mountain Pine (pinus Mugo Turra) Using Hyperspectral Data

The natural environment of the Tatras is one of the most diverse in Europe in terms of species richness and ecological value. This mountain range is well preserved and constitutes an important part of Europe’s nature resources. Dwarf pine (Pinus mugo Turra) is the main component of the Tatras subalpine belt covering altitude between 1550 and 1800 m a.s.l. It is a very dynamic species, which expands rough terrain, covering systematically neighboring area and forming dense shrubs. The specific form of growth makes this community impenetrable. Monitoring and mapping of the subalpine region that used to be highly affected by the grazing is important for the understanding the natural processes determining the balance in the Tatras environment. Leaf Area Index (LAI) is a key parameter controlling biophysical processes of the vegetation canopy. LAI can be measured using different methods such as optical ground-based instruments and optical imagery. Hyperspectral imagery obtained by DAIS and ROSIS spectrometers enable to distinguish genuine and absolute spectral differences that exist within the population of dwarf pine. The aim of this study is to investigate relationship between field measurements, information acquired from image and environment conditions in each (dwarf pine) test site. Set of ground measurements describing biophysical characteristics of vegetation (Accumulated Photosynthetically Active Radiation APAR, spectral properties) was also acquired. Results of correlation between ground and imagery data show potentials for indicating intrapopulational variation in dwarf mountain pine community and its sources, which are basic information for ecological risk and long-term impacts assessment.