Advancing forest biodiversity visualisation through mixed reality

Summary

Forest biodiversity is essential for ecosystem health and provides critical services to humanity. However, threats from pollution and climate change underscore the urgent need for more accurate assessment methods. Monitoring and inventorying biodiversity are vital for informed decision-making in forest management, and Mixed Reality (MR) technology offers a promising solution to enhance traditional visual assessment methods. By overlaying 3D virtual information, such as text and holograms, in forest environments, MR can improve the contextualisation of biodiversity data. Here, we developed HoloFlora, the first interactive MR application designed to visualise biodiversity indicators on digital tree stems. With a geometric accuracy of 1.4 cm, HoloFlora sets a benchmark for future methods, demonstrating MR’s potential to deliver precise spatial information in complex forest settings. Expert evaluations validated the application’s intuitive design and functionality, and further refinements were made based on their feedback. The strong acceptance of MR technology among experts highlights its transformative potential in forestry, suggesting it could facilitate integration into existing management practices. Our findings establish a foundation for using MR in forest environments to enhance biodiversity monitoring and raise public awareness about biodiversity loss.