New technology reveals how tree age impacts forest health and growth.
The researchers used advanced remote sensing techniques to study the distribution of biochemical traits in forest trees. They combined hyperspectral data and LiDAR technology to measure pigments like chlorophyll and carotenoids in tree canopies. By analyzing the data, they found that different parts of the canopy have varying levels of these pigments, with lower canopy areas having higher concentrations. They also discovered that the distribution of biochemical traits changes with the age of the trees, likely due to differences in photosynthetic activity. This study shows how remote sensing can help us understand the health and growth of forest vegetation in a non-invasive and efficient way.