Family influences on leaf area estimates derived from crown and tree dimensions in Pinus taeda

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-20-2003

Abstract

Numerous studies have attempted to use remote sensing tools to estimate leaf area index (LAI). However, these estimates have generally lacked precision and typically provide little information on stand or canopy structure. Recent advances in remote sensing technologies may allow more accurate estimates of LAI based upon measures of individual tree structure. In this paper, we describe how well leaf area (LA) of 15-year-old loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) trees can be estimated from tree and crown dimensional characteristics that might be derived using remote sensing tools. Because crown and canopy structure can vary genetically, we also tested for family differences in the allometric relationships. When family effects were not considered, the log of crown volume predicted log(LA) with an R2 = 0.65 compared to R2 = 0.81 for the relationship between LA and DBH. When tree height was included in the relationship with crown volume, R2 improved to 0.83. The log of crown width predicted log(LA) with an R2 = 0.58, and the log of crown length predicted log(LA) with an R2 = 0.44. Family effects were found to be significant in all of the models tested. With family effects accounted for, the log of crown volume predicted log(LA) with an R2 = 0.83 compared to 0.91 for the LA-DBH relationship. The combination of crown volume and tree height predicted log(LA) with an R2 = 0.91. The combination of tree height and height to middle of the crown predicted log(LA) with an R2 = 0.83 with family effects included. The log of crown width predicted log(LA) with an R2 = 0.80, and the log of tree height predicted log(LA) with an R2 = 0.75. Our analysis suggests that individual tree LA can be predicted as precisely from measures of tree and crown structural dimensions as it can from DBH. These relationships appear to be influenced by genetic factors, although no more so than DBH-based relationships. The most accurate LA estimates require information on both vertical and horizontal tree and crown dimensions. Given the current rate of technological advancement, it appears likely that remote sensing tools will be capable of providing accurate assessment of stand-level LAI in the near future. © 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

Forest Ecology and Management

First Page

261

Last Page

270

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