Eco-physiological modelling of leaf photosynthesis and adaptation analysis of Chinese ivy (Hedera nepalensis var. sinensis) in an evergreen broad-leaved forest in eastern China

Abstract

The individual plant of Chinese ivy can produce three types of branches (creepy, climbing, and reproductive) during its development, which adapt to different environmental factors. An eco-physiological model was constructed to simulate leaf net photosynthetic rate (P N) of Chinese ivy (Hedera nepalensis var. sinensis) in subtropical evergreen broad-leaved forest based on leaf physiological and mathematical analysis. The model integrated the rate-limiting biochemical process of photosynthesis and the processes of stomatal regulation. Influence of environmental factors (solar radiation, temperature, CO2 concentration, vapour pressure deficit, etc.) on P N was also considered in our model; its parameters were estimated for leaves on three types of branch in the whole growing season. The model was validated with field data. The model could simulate P N of leaf on three types of branches accurately. Influence of solar radiation on leaf P N of three types of branches in different seasons was analyzed through the model with numerical analysis. © 2006 Institute of Experimental Botany, ASCR.