Photosynthetically active radiation in restoration forests

Abstract

New technologies and remote sensors have been used for to monitor forest restoration. To measure canopy opening, for example, it is possible to use the photosynthetic radiation sensor known as aceptometer. With this sensor, it is possible to measure the amount of photosynthetic light that is being intercepted by the canopy and reaching the understory for the regenerating individuals. The solar radiation intercepted by a forest canopy has a high relationship with the photosynthetic rate and productivity of forest biomass. The luminous interception (or productivity) will be different depending on the successional stage and the forest type (restoration plantation or natural regeneration). We intend to build the knowledge base about the photosynthetic radiation behavior in different forest restoration systems. In addition, the products of this work will support further studies using 3D remote sensing (lidar and photogrammetry). (AU)