Use of Satellite Image Techniques to Determine Distribution and Abundance of the Invasive Bassia indica in Benghazi City, Libya
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63359/xnjtsv90Keywords:
Heavy metalsAbstract
Bassia indica is one of invasive plants which widespread and distributed wildly in last decades in Libya and other regions of the world. Because of its ability to grow in harsh environments, this plant invades a lot of places in Benghazi city including disturbed areas, saline soils and salt marsh. GIS and satellite remote sensing provide powerful, scalable tools for assessing plant distribution and abundance. Several satellite platforms provide multispectral and hyperspectral data suitable for vegetation analysis. This study assessed the distribution of Bassia indica in Benghazi, Libya, integrating GIS mapping and satellite images techniques. Satellite images analysis revealed uneven spatial distribution, with the Northern district hosting the highest coverage (42.8%), while Bo’aathani had the minimal presence (10.3%, 0.5 km²). Bassia indica coverage declined, inversely correlating with urban development (85% to 95% urban area) in the city during last near years. The growth of this species in Northern district which its soil characterized by high saline content reflect its promising features in phytoremediation and soil reclamation.
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