Closing the gap between existing large-area imaging research and marine conservation needs

Area of Science:

• Marine conservation technology
• Benthic ecosystem monitoring
• Photogrammetry applications

Background:

• Large-area imaging (LAI) uses structure-from-motion photogrammetry to create 3D models for marine science.
• LAI is widely used for measuring benthic ecosystem structure and tracking changes but is underutilized in marine conservation.

Approach:

• Reviewed coral reef literature on LAI applications to identify research trends and regional patterns.
• Surveyed 135 coral reef scientists and practitioners on LAI familiarity, barriers, and conservation relevance.
• Assessed current LAI adoption, primarily by researchers in developed economies, with limited conservation focus.

Key Points:

• LAI adoption is concentrated among researchers in advanced economies and infrequently applied to conservation.
• Practitioners in emerging economies anticipate future LAI use.
• A gap exists between current LAI research and practitioner-identified conservation priorities.

Conclusions:

• More diverse, conservation-focused research using LAI is needed.
• Facilitating LAI access requires training, data partnerships, standardized procedures, and tool development.
• Collaboration between Global North scientists and other stakeholders can advance LAI in marine conservation.