THE PROJECT

Mainly based on satellite image time series, BioEOS proposes to develop observation tools to characterise the spatiotemporal dynamics of coastal biodiversity, map changes, produce operational indicators to report on its status, and improve conservation measures. Coral reef and Seagrasses of Southwestern Indian Ocean region (Réunion, Mayotte, Glorieuse and Bassas da India) are the first targeted ecosystems for experimentation.

 

For the proof-of-concept demonstration, a set of selected biodiversity metrics will be extracted from data collected on relevant studied islands as pilot sites. The ambition of BioEOS is to provide generic information that could be used for different end-uses such as:

(i)    Ecological status of coral reefs, a challenging ecosystem with multiple transitions between regimes depending on stressors

(ii)  Seagrass seascape monitoring as a proxy for water quality monitoring and input for the ecosystem service evaluation

(iii)  Seabed geomorphological dynamic as an important information to determine changes in the presence as well as ecological status of coastal habitats.

 

In addition to the need for status indicators in relation to anthropogenic pressures, the detection of sudden changes following specific events (cyclones, heat waves, changes in water salinity, changes in sea level, geological events) is also a key issue for the various regional and national stakeholders involved in coastal areas large-scale monitoring.