Ocean color algorithms in optically shallow waters: limitations and improvements

Kendall L. Carder; Jennifer P. Cannizzaro; Zhongping Lee

doi:10.1117/12.615039

22 August 2005 Ocean color algorithms in optically shallow waters: limitations and improvements

Kendall L. Carder, Jennifer P. Cannizzaro, Zhongping Lee

Proceedings Volume 5885, Remote Sensing of the Coastal Oceanic Environment; 588506 (2005) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.615039
Event: Optics and Photonics 2005, 2005, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

Current ocean color algorithms based on remote-sensing reflectance spectra, R_rs(λ), overestimate chlorophyll a concentrations, Chl, and particulate backscattering coefficients, b_bp(λ), in optically shallow oceanic waters due to increased bottom reflectance. Since such regions often contain important ecological resources and are heavily influenced by human populations, accurate estimates of Chl and b_bp(λ) are essential for monitoring algal blooms (e.g. red tides), detecting sediment resuspension events and quantifying primary productivity. In this study, a large synthetic data set of 500 R_rs(λ) spectra is developed to examine limitations of ocean color algorithms for optically shallow waters and to develop alternative algorithms that can be applied to satellite (e.g. SeaWiFS and MODIS) and aircraft ocean color sensor data. R_rs(λ) spectra are simulated using a semi-analytic model for optically shallow waters. The model is parameterized with sand bottom albedo spectra, ρ(λ), using a wide range of chlorophyll a concentrations (0.03-30 mg m^-3), bottom depths (2-50m) and bottom albedos (ρ(550)=0.01-0.30) to provide a robust data set that accurately represents and complements shipboard R_rs(λ) data from the Gulf of Mexico and Bahamian waters. The accuracy of a remotely-based technique developed recently from shipboard R_rs(λ) data is tested on the synthetic data for identifying waters with bottom reflectance contributions at R_rs(555) greater than 25%. Limitations and improvements regarding this method are discussed.

Citation Download Citation

Kendall L. Carder, Jennifer P. Cannizzaro, and Zhongping Lee "Ocean color algorithms in optically shallow waters: limitations and improvements", Proc. SPIE 5885, Remote Sensing of the Coastal Oceanic Environment, 588506 (22 August 2005); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.615039

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