An assessment of the bi-directional reflectance distribution function (BRDF
) of corals with different morphologies was undertaken using hyperspectral
reflectance measurements. The highest variance in reflectance obtained at d
ifferent viewing angles was found for the open branching Acropora colony, p
ossibly attributed to branch orientation and internal shadow distribution.
Spectral separation within and between features at the nominated sensor-vie
wing angles was greatest in the near infrared portion of the spectrum. The
analysis of coral reef bi-directional reflectance properties and degree of
internal shadowing holds potential for future assessment and information ex
traction relating to coral structural characteristics.