T.V. Pankeeva1, N.V. Mironova1, В.A. Novikov2
1 A.O. Kovalevsky Institute of Biology of the Southern Seas RAS, Sevastopol, Russia
2 Branch of the M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University in Sevastopol, Russia
Abstract
The possibility of digital technology for seafloor vegetation mapping for coastal area is demonstrated. The Kruglaya Bay was chosen as a model region for macrophytes distribution mapping. The bay stands out with biological diversity and an abundance of unique habitats of bottom vegetation, which results in ideal habitat for seagrass and algae. Aerial photography using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and hydro-botanical studies were conducted in summer 2018. The map of macrophyte distribution was made based on aerial photos, while composition and structure were determined though hydro-botanical surveys. Five transects and hydro-botanical profiles were made for classification of areas with mass macrophyte species in the bay. Six bottom plant communities were identified for mapping. Digitized boundaries were plotted on the map of macrophytes distribution in the Kruglaya Bay using software package QGIS version 2.18.12. The spatial patterns of the distribution of dominant macrophyte species (Cystoseira, Phyllophora, Zostera noltei and Stuckenia pectinata) were mapped along with quantitative characteristics. Cystoseira spp live on block boulder deposits and can be found in western and eastern parts of the Bay. Phyllophora crispa dominates in the deep-water area at the bay exit, along both coasts consisting of gravel and sand deposits with a broken shell. Seaweed is registered on silty-sandy deposits in the southern parts of the bay. Green algae species are found in the most protruding part of the Bay. The Kruglaya Bay is distinguished by significant areas where bottom vegetation is absent.
Keywords
bottom vegetation, GIS, unmanned aerieal vehicle (drone), orthophotoplan, the Kruglaya Bay, the Black Sea
DOI
10.22449/2413-5577-2019-3-61-71