microhabitatscan

Microhabitatscan is a term used to describe a set of methods for identifying, mapping, and characterizing microhabitats—small-scale living spaces that create unique environmental conditions within larger ecosystems. The approach emphasizes spatial resolution at the centimeter to meter scale to capture variation in substrate, moisture, temperature, light, and biotic presence that is often missed by conventional surveys.

Techniques commonly employed include close-range photogrammetry and structured-light 3D scanning to build high-resolution surface models, combined with hyperspectral or multispectral imaging to assess substrate type and biological cover. In situ sensors such as miniature temperature, humidity, and radiation loggers, as well as micro-thermography and infrared imaging, provide fine-scale climate data. Data are integrated in a geographic information system to produce detailed microhabitat maps and 3D models that can be queried for habitat suitability or resource distribution.

Applications span ecology, conservation, agriculture, and urban planning. Researchers apply microhabitatscan to study leaf litter moisture pockets that harbor invertebrates, moss cushions on rock faces, tree bark fissures that host crevices and fungi, or soil pores that influence root networks. It supports habitat restoration by identifying heterogeneity hotspots and tracking changes over time under climate change.

Benefits include high spatial fidelity, repeatability, and the potential to link physical structure with biological patterns. Limitations involve equipment cost, data processing requirements, and the need for standardized protocols to enable cross-study comparisons. Field protocols can be labor-intensive and may disturb sensitive microhabitats if not carefully managed. Related concepts include microhabitat, habitat heterogeneity, microclimate mapping, and high-resolution environmental sensing.