Potential of Remote Sensing for Improved Understanding of Aquatic Chlorophyll, Biomass and Primary Productivity Estimation

In aquatic ecosystems, an understanding of biomass accumulation dynamics, carbon sequestration and primary productivity (using chlorophyll estimation) at a regional to global scale is undoubtedly crucial in the changing climatic conditions. Phytoplankton is the chief contributor of carbon fluxes in aquatic ecosystems; and comprises photosynthetically active pigment chlorophyll-a and associated pigments. Therefore, the estimation of chlorophyll-a concentration is the primary requirement in revealing the quantification of phytoplankton biomass and primary productivity in aquatic ecosystems. Remote sensing technology offers tremendous opportunity in assessing the chlorophyll-a concentration and water quality parameters from a regional to a global scale. Advancements in sensors technology cause improvement in spatial resolution and better temporal coverage. Additions of many new sensors data sets bring continuity in data accessibility and provide opportunities in integrating multiple sensors data to monitor the dynamics in chlorophyll, biomass and primary productivity in aquatic bodies. This chapter deals with remote sensing insights for the potential improvement in understanding aquatic chlorophyll, biomass and primary productivity estimation. On reviewing various studies, it is understood that the remote sensing technology provides remarkable opportunities by integrating multi-sensors approaches and novel algorithms developments. Use of hyperspectral sensors of narrow and continuous bands is beneficial, where an optical sensor with broad and non-continuous bands shows incapability. However, proper in situ measurements are needed for the accurate validation of the remotely sensed outputs. Future remote sensing mission for aquatic science will bring new offerings and capabilities to monitor biomass and productivity dynamics.