LiDAR Principles, Processing and Applications in Forest Ecology

Introduces LiDAR (light detection and ranging) technology in forest ecology, explaining how to collect and process data using Python and advanced algorithms

Qinghua Guo (Author), Yanjun Su (Author), Tianyu Hu (Author)

9780128238943, Elsevier Science

Paperback, published 10 March 2023

510 pages, 708 illustrations (100 in full color)
22.9 x 15.2 x 3.2 cm, 0.45 kg

LiDAR Principles, Processing and Applications in Forest Ecology introduces the principles of LiDAR technology and explains how to collect and process LiDAR data from different platforms based on real-world experience. The book provides state-of the-art algorithms on how to extract forest parameters from LiDAR and explains how to use them in forest ecology. It gives an interdisciplinary view, from the perspective of remote sensing and forest ecology. Because LiDAR is still rapidly developing, researchers must use programming languages to understand and process LiDAR data instead of established software. In response, this book provides Python code examples and sample data.

Sections give a brief history and introduce the principles of LiDAR, as well as three commonly seen LiDAR platforms. The book lays out step-by-step coverage of LiDAR data processing and forest structure parameter extraction, complete with Python examples. Given the increasing usefulness of LiDAR in forest ecology, this volume represents an important resource for researchers, students and forest managers to better understand LiDAR technology and its use in forest ecology across the world. The title contains over 15 years of research, as well as contributions from scientists across the world.

1. The Origin and Development of LiDAR Active Remote Sensing Technology
2. Working principle of LiDAR 2.1 Ranging principle of LiDAR
3. Field work flow and system error source of LiDAR
4. LiDAR data format
5. LiDAR data filtering and digital elevation model generation
6. Data Analysis and Feature Extraction of Terrestrial LiDAR
7. Data Analysis and Feature Extraction of Airborne LiDAR
8. Data Analysis and Feature Extraction of Spaceborne LiDAR
9. Forest Structural Parameters Extraction
10. Ecosystem Function Parameters Inversion and Large-scale Simulation
11. Applications of LiDAR in dynamic monitoring of forest ecosystem
12. Applications of LiDAR technology in forest biodiversity, hydrology, and ecological models
13. 3D visualization and reconstruction of vegetation based on LiDAR technology
14. Emerging and ecological application of the near-surface LiDAR platform
15. Challenges and applications of LiDAR

Subject Areas: Agronomy & crop production [TVK]