XVI International Botanical Congess

LIGNUM is a model of tree form and function, that incorporates both physiology and morphology. It provides great potential for the study of functional relationships between physiology, growth, and environment. LIGNUM was developed using Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) as a case study. We demonstrate that the model can reproduce the growth and structure of Jack pine, through a shift in its input parameters. Generality of the principles used in the model is hence evidenced. A sensitivity study was performed on the sapwood and foliage respiration rates, and an apical dominance factor. The results may indicate the relative importance of these characteristics for tree carbon production, and survival. The total light flux, light directionality, and canopy cover are varied. The morphological responses of the model trees are assessed. Results are linked to the survival fitness of the species.