Comparing global models of terrestrial net primary productivity (NPP): importance of vegetation structure on seasonal NPP estimates

Citation
A. Bondeau et al., Comparing global models of terrestrial net primary productivity (NPP): importance of vegetation structure on seasonal NPP estimates, GL CHANGE B, 5, 1999, pp. 35-45
Citations number
18
Categorie Soggetti
Environment/Ecology
Journal title
GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY
ISSN journal
13541013 → ACNP
Volume
5
Year of publication
1999
Supplement
1
Pages
35 - 45
Database
ISI
SICI code
1354-1013(199904)5:<35:CGMOTN>2.0.ZU;2-2
Abstract
Estimates of the seasonal absorbed fraction of photosynthetically active ra diation (FPAR) and net primary productivity (NPP) are compared among four p roduction efficiency models (PEMs) and seven terrestrial biosphere models s imulating canopy development. In addition, the simulated FPARs of the model s are compared to the FASIR-FPAR derived from NOAA-AVHRR satellite observat ions. All models reproduce observed summergreen phenology of temperate deci duous forests rather well, but perform less well for raingreen phenology of savannas. Some models estimate a much longer active canopy in savannas tha n indicated by satellite observations. As a result, these models estimate h igh negative monthly NPP during the dry season. For boreal and tropical eve rgreen ecosystems, several models overestimate LAI and FPAR. When the simul ated canopy does respond to unfavourable periods, the seasonal NPP is large ly determined by absorbed photosynthetically active radiation (APAR). When the simulated canopy does not respond to unfavourable periods, the light us e efficiency (LUE) influences the seasonal NPP more. However, the relative importance of APAR and LUE can change seasonally.