以“塔群” 为核心的“立体-全息” 森林生态系统信息化观测研究方法体系

The research on forest ecology should develop towards more macroscopic and more microscopic at spatiotemporal scales, which has challenged traditional approaches for ecological observation. With the development of information technology, shifts in the research paradigm are critically needed. Based on Ker Towers as a CornerStone Research Infrastructure Project in Qingyuan Forest CERN, National Observation and Research Station, we propose a framework of “space-air-tower-ground” for integrated observation and research with the tower(s) as the center. The framework includes four components: active/passive satellite-based remote sensing (space), near-ground remote sensing platform by unmanned aerial vehicle with LiDAR and multi/hyperspectral sensors (air), tower group or single tower (tower), and long-term forest plot arrays (ground). Along with information technology such as the Internet of Things, cloud computation and artificial intelligence, data acquisition, transmission, computation, analyzation and display can be achieved to develop an information technology-based “three-dimensional and holographic” observation and research in forest ecology. This framework would promote knowledge innovation in forest ecology, ecosystem ecology, and forest science, and provide insights toward the paradigm shifts in geography, remote sensing science, boundary layer meteorology, and other disciplines.