Allometric equations for estimating leaf area index (LAI) of two important tropical species (Tectona grandis and Dendrocalamus strictus)

Abstract

Leaf area index (LAI) of Teak (Tectona grandis) and Bamboo (Dendrocalamus strictus) grown in Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary of Narmada District, Gujarat, India was obtained by destructive sampling, photo-grid method and by litter trap method. An allometric equation (between leaf area by litter trap method and canopy spread area) was developed for the determination of LAI. Results show that LAI value calculated by the developed allometric equation was similar to that estimated by destructive sampling and photo-grid method, with Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 0.90 and 1.15 for Teak, and 0.38 and 0.46 for Bamboo, respectively. There was a perfect match in both the LAI values (estimated and calculated), indicating the accuracy of the developed equations for both the species. In conclusion, canopy spread is a better and sensitive parameter to estimate leaf area of trees. The developed equations can be used for estimating LAI of Teak and Bamboo in tropics.

Keywords

bamboo / canopy spread area / leaf area index / specific leaf area / teak / tropical forest

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