Application of a Functional-Structural Plant Model (FSPM) to Optimize a Management Regime

Abstract

Functional Structural Plant Models (FSPM) facilitate decision making processes by rendering visualizations that permit decision makers to more easily evaluate multiple options or outcomes. This study simulates different stand management scenarios based on varying initial stand densities to demonstrate one potential application of FSPM as a decision making tool. We investigate the effects of several structural parameters on tree growth of Stone Pine (Pinus pinea L), and adjust them to model tree growth data collected in the field. Our simulation results show that individual trees develop more foliage when there is less competition, while greater competition (higher density) results in more foliage on a per hectare basis. The same relationship is observed for total biomass. Individual tree diameter growth is greater when there is less competition.