Description:
<jats:p>The color of a tree's canopy can provide much information about the tree's physiological status as well as its aesthetic function. We present a system for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of tree canopy color, based on a previously published algorithm. This algorithm determines (with a known accuracy) the Munsell hue, value, and chroma of a color using densitometric readings obtained through the use of color separation filters. This method was adapted for use with black-and-white video images. Combining the Rib algorithm with the techniques of photography, video imagery, scanning microdensitometry, and batch data computer processing, a semi-automated system was devised for the pixel-by-pixel color evaluation of a 512 × 512-pixel image. Based on a sample of 251 color chips, the following accuracies were obtained: Munsell hue—86%, Munsell value—93%, Munsell chroma—70%, and Munsell color—62%. An example is provided that demonstrates how this system may be used to determine tree canopy color. By employing this technique, an estimation may be made of the colors and their relative quantities that are displayed by a tree's canopy.</jats:p>