Algorithms for the remote sensing of the Baltic ecosystem (DESAMBEM). Part 2: Empirical validation

Abstract

This paper is the second of two articles on the methodology ofthe remote sensing of the Baltic ecosystem. In Part~1 the authorspresented the set of DESAMBEM algorithms for determining themajor parameters of this ecosystem on the basis of satellitedata (see Wo/xniak et al.~2008 -- this issue). That article discussedin detail the mathematical apparatus of the algorithms. Part2 presents the effects of the practical application of the algorithmsand their validation, the latter based on satellite maps of selectedBaltic ecosystem parameters: the distributions of the sea surfacetemperature, the Photosynthetically Available Radiation (PAR)at the sea surface, the surface concentrations of chlorophyll~{it a}and the total primary production of organic matter.~Particularemphasis was laid on analysing the precision of estimates ofthese and other parameters of the Baltic ecosystem, determinedby remote sensing methods. The errors in these estimates turnedout to be relatively small; hence, the set of DESAMBEM algorithmsshould in the future be utilised as the foundation for the effectivesatellite monitoring of the state and functioning of the Balticecosystem.

Keywords

• Marine ecosystem monitoring
• Chlorophyll algorithm
• Temperature algorithm
• Primary production algorithm
• Light-photosynthesis model
• SeaWiFS
• Ocean colour