Simulation of the vegetation structure and function in a Malaysian tropical rain forest using the individual-based dynamic vegetation model SEIB-DGVM

Authored by Hisashi Sato

Date Published: 2009

DOI: 10.1016/j.foreco.2009.03.002

Sponsors: No sponsors listed

Platforms: Fortran SEIB-DGVM

Model Documentation: Other Narrative

Model Code URLs: http://seib-dgvm.com/data/seib_code230.zip

Abstract

An individual-based Dynamic Global Vegetation Model, the SEIB-DCVM, was adapted to a Malaysian tropical rain forest by incorporating formulas and parameters from a gap dynamics model, FORMIX3. After calibration, the model reconstructed forest structure (i.e., size structure, leaf area index, and woody biomass) and carbon fluxes (i.e., gross and net primary productivity) of a dipterocarp forest in Pasoh, Peninsular Malaysia. Sensitivity analysis demonstrated that the model was robust; forest structure and ecosystem functions moderately fluctuated due to changes in parameters and climatic environments. Sensitivity analysis also indicated that the success and decay of a dominant species group that monopolized the canopy layer greatly affected those of a less abundant, shade-intolerant group. This result indicates that even if environmental changes do not exhibit clear effects on dominant canopy species and/or whole forest structure, such changes may still substantially impact the biodiversity of subdominant species. In simulations without gap formation, woody biomass was overestimated and a shade-intolerant species group was eliminated. This finding indicates that incorporating gap formation into the individual-based model is essential for the appropriate simulation of forest biomass and biodiversity in this Malaysian tropical rain forest. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Tags

Climate Ecosystem growth Impacts Space Co2 Gap models