Satellite images and bathymetric LiDAR for mapping seagrass meadows: an overview

The main goal of this study is to analyze the potentialities and weaknesses of remote sensing techniques to map and monitor Posidonia oceanica (Linnaeus) Delile meadows in the Mediterranean Sea which represent a highly significant marine plant that provides a series of environmental functions such as coastal protection and carbon restoration. We present an overview of state-of-the-art methods that enable the possibility of carrying out surveys in brief periods and with low environmental impact, based on the use of high-resolution satellites, images, and bathymetric LiDAR. Those data can be collected and elaborated to create a time series to trace trends of growth and decline of seagrass meadow. That information can also be used as indicators to guide environmental monitoring, management, and development of the territory as well as the setup of restoration sites. With this contribution, we aim to illustrate the criticalities and insights of these methods.