A dynamic model for above-ground growth and dry matter production in a forest community.
Abstract
A model was developed to simulate the production rate of above-ground dry matter by trees and by ground vegetation. Values for a Scots pine stand in central Finland were predicted and compared with actual measurements. The physiological state of development of the plant during the annual cycle was estimated as a function of temp., the only environmental variable included in the model. The concept of potential production rate (PPR) combined into one variable the effect on growth rate of the inherent growth rhythm, the number of growing compartments (shoot, needle, stem; ground layer components) and the amount of available carbohydrates. The production rate of the community was obtained by multiplying PPR by the temp. factor. Strong correlation was found between predicted and measured values for daily growth and production.