Assessing spatio-temporal impacts of pine processionary moth defoliation on Mediterranean forest dynamics using UAV remote sensing

Abstract

Overall, this thesis highlights that the latest modelling and remote sensing techniques, including UAV as an alternative 3D technology, are currently available to be combined with conventional ground surveys and statistical analyses according to the spatial and temporal scales and types of defoliation. The use of UAV images may also hold great potential as an alternative cost-effective method to other conventional ground-truth data for monitoring forest health. I conclude that optimal detection and monitoring methods are often specific to each pest agent associated with host tree species. Therefore, the advancement in prediction models linked to ecosystem services in pest and disease control would be promising for mitigating the future damage to our forests under climate change.

Date of Award	3 Jun 2020
Original language	English
Supervisor	Lluís Brotons Alabau (Director) & Javier Retana Alumbreros (Tutor)