Modelling of dispersion and deposition of tree pollen within a forest canopy

Abstract

The relative merits of applying contemporary atmospheric diffusional models to reconstructing Quaternary vegetational patterns via modem pollen rain studies are being examined in a continuing research project to model tree-pollen dispersion mathematically in closed-canopy woodlands, and to compare it with the traditional methods of Palynologists. It has been ascertained that the forcing functions required to drive the state-of-art dispersal equations are lacking in the palynological field, and thus limits to the usefulness of trying these are proposed. Finally, applications are suggested to other problems in palynology and present-day atmospheric diffusion. © 1989 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.