F. Berninger et al., Modelling of reserve carbohydrate dynamics, regrowth and nodulation in a N-2-fixing tree managed by periodic prunings, PL CELL ENV, 23(10), 2000, pp. 1025-1040
We used a modified transport resistance approach to model legume tree growt
h, nodulation and dynamics of reserve carbohydrates after pruning. The mode
l distributes growth between roots and shoots applying the transport resist
ance approach. Within shoots, growth is divided into leaves, branches and s
tems applying the pipe model theory. The model also accounts for the metabo
lic differences of principal N sources, nitrate, ammonium and atmospheric d
initrogen, in a mechanistic way. We compared the simulation results with me
asured biomass dynamics of Gliricidia sepium (Jacq,) Walp. (Papilionaceae:
Robinieae) under humid and subhumid tropical conditions. Comparison showed
that the biomass production predicted by the model is close to measured val
ues. Total N-2 fixation is also similar to measured values. Qualitatively t
he model increases the proportion of N-2 fixation if roots acquire less min
eral N, In the present study the general form of the model is discussed and
compared,vith similar models. The results encourage the use of this approa
ch for studying biomass dynamics of legume trees under the scheme of period
ic prunings, Also, it shows that process-based models have potential in the
simulation of trees disturbed by prunings, herbivory or similar factors.