A workflow of open-source tools for drone-based photogrammetry of marine megafauna.

ABSTRACT: Drones have revolutionized researchers' ability to obtain morphological data on megafauna, particularly cetaceans. The last decade has seen a surge in studies using drones to distinguish morphological differences among populations, calculate energetic reserves and body condition, and identify decreasing body sizes over generations. However, standardized workflows are needed to guide data collection, post-processing, and incorporation of measurement uncertainty, thereby ensuring that measurements are comparable within and across studies. Workflows containing free, open-source tools and methods that are accommodating to various research budgets and types of drones (consumer vs. professional) are more inclusive and equitable, which will foster increased knowledge in ecology and wildlif

SUBMITTER: Bierlich KC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12356183 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature