About the Database
The Spectranomics Database is comprised of 4 interrelated units: (1) a phylogenetic tree of species based on morpho-taxonomic and barcoding information; (2) a detailed foliar biochemical database; (3) a high-fidelity spectroscopic reflectance and transmittance database; and (4) canopy spectroscopic reflectance signatures of each species, created with a combination of field measurements and radiative transfer modeling. The detailed methods and protocols are available on our Technical Information page.
The database focuses on tropical forest canopy trees and lianas (woody vines) considered highly inaccessible to scientific researchers. Currently, the database contains more than 3100 specimens. The phylogenetic information is updated regularly on this website. The chemical and spectroscopic databases are being made available starting in 2009.
Biochemistry: Measurements of leaf chemical traits are made in the field and in our laboratory located in the Department of Global Ecology, Carnegie Institution. The portfolio of plant biochemical properties create a fingerprint for each species. These fingerprints include a wide range of plant pigments, nutrients, isotopes, carbon fractions, and secondary compounds. Measurements of additional chemical constituents are being considered based on their potential ecological importance as well as their likelihood of being remotely sensed with the new Carnegie Airborne Observatory.
Spectroscopy: High-fidelity spectroscopic measurements are made in the field using custom-built spectrometers. The spectral measurements are collected in 1 nanometer increments from 400-2500 nanometers. These leaf measurements are combined with other canopy measurements to simulate canopy spectral properties using a 3-D hyperspectral radiative transfer model. These spectra provide the direct link between plant chemistry and the airborne mapping made possible by systems such as the Carnegie Airborne Observatory.