In the present study the construction of a basic model of Pinus radiata D. Don crown is proposed, which may be expanded by additional genetical, physiological, pathological information, as well by the reactions of the crown to stress, interaction of the tree with the environment, etc.
An architectural unit is used as a basic initial model. The architectural unit corresponds to the specific expression of the growth and development patterns of the crown architecture of a given species.
The modelling of the architectural unit was carried out with the help of L-Systems (of Lindenmayer). L-Systems are language created, especially for the computer modelling of plant structure and development. They have the capacity to create intelligent systems where every organ of the tree is responding to its endogenous developmental law, and also to environmental conditions.
The procedure is presented on the example of Pinus radiata D. Don crown data. Additional variables as bud maturity, position and vigour, and some topological features were included. The architectural unit was determined, and the model was translated to L-Systems. Finally, a software based on the L-System model of the crown was compiled.
A software based on tree architecture theory and written in L-Systems language demonstrates that it is possible to simulate the development of crown architecture of Radiata pine. The species was architecturally predictable. The method is a useful tool to visualise the development of tree crown growth over time.
Key words: tree architecture, Lindenmayer Systems, growth model, crown development.
Correspondence: M. Paulina Fernández Q., Instituto Forestal (INFOR), Carlos Sabat 6336, Vitacura, Santiago, Chile
Telefax: +56-2-6727384
E-mail: crinzaur@abello.seci.uchile.cl