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4 - Geographical information systems and remote sensing

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  05 June 2012

By
Patrick E. Osborne  and
Louise Glew
Edited by
Joanna M. Setchell  and
Deborah J. Curtis
Joanna M. Setchell
Affiliation:
University of Durham
Deborah J. Curtis
Affiliation:
Oxford Brookes University
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Summary

INTRODUCTION

A Geographic Information System (GIS) is a collection of hardware and software for the storage, retrieval, mapping and analysis of geographic data (Table 4.1). The spatial data held in a GIS refer to a particular place on earth, represented in a coordinate system such as latitude and longitude (i.e. the data are geo-referenced). GIS data are of two general types: vector, with points, lines (arcs) and polygons as fundamental components; and raster, where the data are held as a grid of pixels. One of the most common sources of raster data for a GIS is satellite remote sensing. We may define remote sensing in a variety of ways but it refers to the process of acquiring information about the Earth's surface without being in contact with it (e.g. from aircraft or satellites). Remote sensing involves recording reflected or emitted radiation and processing, analysing and applying the output to a particular problem.

In this chapter we consider how GIS and remote sensing may be applied to problems in primatology, a topic that appears to have a relatively small body of literature, although the fields of GIS and remote sensing are themselves vast. Where possible, we cite examples from the primate literature to illustrate the range of applications where GIS is invaluable but also draw on wider examples where primate work could benefit from techniques that are employed on other groups of animals.

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Type
Chapter
Information
Field and Laboratory Methods in Primatology
A Practical Guide
 , pp. 69 - 90
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2011

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