Hyperspectral mapping of the microscale dynamics of microphytobenthos

Map of surficial chlorophyll a recorded from intertidal sediments inhabited by lugworms using the hyperspectral imaging system hypersub.

Description:
During the thesis defense talk, I will present the newly developed methodology and submersible instrumentation for recording the microscale spatial distribution and temporal dynamics of benthic microalgae in surficial sediments. The system hypersub adapts hyperspectral imaging technology to create field-scale (~ 1m) maps of pigment distribution with unprecedented detail (< 1 mm resolution). The non-invasive modality of imaging allows the monitoring of the same sediment regions and to compile time-stacks of pigment maps, which can be used to generate a rich description of the spatio-temporal profile of chlorophyll a at the sediment surface. Ecological studies made with hypersub will be discussed, in particular the mechanism how infaunal 'gardening' worms deep within the sediment may induce growth of microphytobenthos at the sediment surface. A question and answer session will follow after the talk.