Estimation of canopy properties in deciduous forests with digital hemispherical and cover photography

Is anticipated seed cutting an effective option to accelerate transition to high forest in European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) coppice stands?

“…Moreover, the use of ecological variables in our analyses allowed an objective and broadly comparable evaluation of the influence of the applied management options. The selected variables and experimental designs used were in accordance with that of other studies specifically addressing beech forest dynamics (e.g., Chianucci and Cutini 2013;Genet et al 2010;Lebourgeois et al 2005;Leuschner et al 2006;Meier and Leuschner 2008). Based on comparisons with these reports, we conclude that our studied stands are characterized by medium-high productivity, as revealed by the average values of canopy attributes.…”

“…Previous studies indicated that this canopy attributes exhibit prompt response to disturbances, and are therefore suitable for monitoring the effects of silvicultural practices (Cutini 2002;Rodríguez-Calcerrada et al 2011). Litter production was estimated using litter traps; Chianucci and Cutini (2013) described the procedure and accuracy of this method. Based on stand homogeneity and structure 9-15 litter traps of 0.25 m 2 were laid out in each plot on a grid with spacing 7-20 m, 1 m above ground level.…”

“…Leaf area index was estimated indirectly using the LAI 2000 Plant Canopy Analyzer (PCA; Li-Cor Inc., Lincoln, NE, USA); Chianucci and Cutini (2013) described the procedure and accuracy of the method. The LAI-2000 PCA estimates leaf area index from measurements of radiation transmittance at five concentric rings.…”

A simplified methodology for the correction of Leaf Area Index (LAI) measurements obtained by ceptometer with reference to Pinus Portuguese forests

“…Alternatively, indirect methods such as point quadrant, allometric and non-contact methods, have been developed. As reported by Chianucci & Cutini (2013), over the last two decades much attention has been given to indirect measurements of canopy properties in forest ecosystems using ground-based instruments, mainly because harvesting of trees for direct measurement is labor-intensive, time-consuming, destructive, and practical only over small areas. Pompelli et al (2012) reported that allometric models can be very accurate and proved their capacity to produce results with Forest leaf area index (LAI) is an important structural parameter controlling many biological and physiological processes associated with vegetation.…”

Relationships between overstory and understory structure and diversity in semi-natural mixed floodplain forests at Bosco Fontana (Italy)

“…Leaf area index of both overstory and understory layers was estimated in a subset of three plots (one xeric, one mesic and one moist plot) according to Chianucci & Cutini (2013) and Chianucci et al (2014). Downward-facing images of the understory layer and upward-facing images of the overstory layer were collected in 2005 using a Nikon Coolpix 4500 equipped with a FC-E8 fisheye lens converter set to F1, minimum aperture (F 5.3) and one-stopunderxposure.…”