title: Estimating forest LAI profiles and structural parameters using a ground-based laser called 'Echidna'.
abstract: There are many techniques for measuring leaf area index (LAI) and forest canopy foliage profiles but their accuracy is questionable. This paper briefly reviews current methods of estimating forest LAI and presents a novel, ground-based laser system, Echidna that can make a wide range of measurements of forest structure, including LAI. Here, use of the system to provide field data and derived gap probabilities in the form of a 'hemispherical photograph with range' is demonstrated. The results show consistency and reproducibility and do not depend on special conditions for the natural light field.
authors.affiliation: CSIRO Marine and Atmospheric Research, GPO Box 3023, Canberra, ACT 2611, Australia. David.Jupp@csiro.au
authors.forename: David L B
authors.initials: DL
authors.lastname: Jupp
authors.forename: D S
authors.initials: DS
authors.lastname: Culvenor
authors.forename: J L
authors.initials: JL
authors.lastname: Lovell
authors.forename: G J
authors.initials: GJ
authors.lastname: Newnham
authors.forename: A H
authors.initials: AH
authors.lastname: Strahler
authors.forename: C E
authors.initials: CE
authors.lastname: Woodcock
mesh_terms: D007834:Lasers; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D010788:Photosynthesis; D041604:Pinus ponderosa / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D018515:Plant Leaves / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D014197:Trees / Q000033:anatomy & histology