Applying broadband spectra to assess biological control of saltcedar in west Texas |
| |
| Authors: | Reginald S Fletcher |
| |
| Institution: | 1. USDA-ARS-Crop Production Systems Research Unit, Stoneville, MS, 38766, USA.reginald.fletcher@ars.usda.gov |
| |
| Abstract: | Broadband field spectra were assessed to discriminate invasive saltcedar (Tamarix spp.) trees exhibiting feeding damage caused by the saltcedar leaf beetle (Diorhadba spp.) from other land cover types. Data were collected at two study sites near Presidio, Texas in 2010 and 2011. Spectral bands evaluated were coastal blue (400–450?nm), blue (450–510?nm), green (510–580?nm), yellow (585–625?nm), red (630–690?nm), red-edge (705–745?nm), and near-infrared (770–895, 860–1040?nm). Data were evaluated with analysis of variance and Scheffe’s multiple comparison test (α?=?0.05). The red band generally separated severely damaged saltcedar trees from other land cover features. Near-infrared bands separated defoliated saltcedar trees. Broadband spectra has potential for distinguishing saltcedar trees exhibiting feeding damage caused by the saltcedar leaf beetle from other associated features, thus supporting future explorations of airborne and satellite-borne multispectral systems to monitor biological control of saltcedar within complex landscapes. |
| |
| Keywords: | saltcedar saltcedar leaf beetle multispectral feeding damage Diorhadba spp |
|
|
