Construction of an Orthophoto-Draped 3D Model and Classification of Intertidal Habitats Using UAV Imagery in the Galapagos Archipelago

Worldwide, an increasing number of marine islands suffer from various pressures on the environment, driven by climate change and land demands. The Galapagos Archipelago is one most iconic group islands, yet population growth tourism have resulted in a rising need for efficient environmental monitoring its fragile ecosystems, such as intertidal zone which harbors diverse unique fauna. purpose this study was to investigate image classification opportunities these habitats using Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle (UAV) imagery. data research were collected Puerto Ayora Santa Cruz August 2017, urbanized island Galapagos. An orthophoto, digital elevation model (DEM), orthophoto-draped 3D obtained registration software. Based initial performed spectral angle mapper algorithm. A habitat map with four classes (water, sand, rock, vegetation) created overall accuracy 77%, indicating suitability UAV high resolution aerial imagery habitats. developed method could be applied monitor other coastal regions systems.