Projet SCO-BioEOS, Suivi des Variables Essentielles de la Biodiversité côtière : Mise en Oeuvre sur le Site Pilote de La Réunion

Labelled by the SCO (Space for Climate Observatory) and supported by CNES, the BioEOS project (BIOdiversity Earth Observation and monitoring at regional Scale) aims to use satellite imagery to extract metrics that allow for the quantification and monitoring of coastal biodiversity through proxies. The main objective is to address a real need for spatio-temporal knowledge about biodiversity, particularly highlighted in overseas territories. With additional financial support from a convergence and transformation contract for La Réunion (Prefecture of La Réunion in connection with SGAR and DEAL), the initial focus was on the site of La Réunion for the establishment of processing chains, before applying them to other study sites of the project (Glorieuses, Mayotte, and Bassas Da India). The developments carried out so far have generated spatialized knowledge on bathymetry, seagrasses, and coral reefs using images from various sensors (Pléiades, Pléiades NEO, Sentinel, EnMAP, and PRISMA). The work conducted under the BioEOS project highlights the importance of synergy between in situ data and satellite imagery to produce the richest and most accurate information for the management needs of coastal ecosystems. Other opportunities for further work are anticipated to enrich and improve the quality of information extracted regarding these vulnerable ecosystems, namely seagrasses and coral reefs.