The Chapman-Richards Generalization of Von Bertalanffy's Growth Model for Basal Area Growth and Yield in Even - Aged Stands

Abstract

The Chapman-Richards generalization of yon Bertalanffy's growth model is discussed as a basis for the development of practically useful theory of basal area growth and yield of even-aged coniferous monocultures. The origin and generalization of von Bertalanffy's growth model is explored and its applicability to tree and stand growth demonstrated by means of stem-analyzed spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) tree data and experimental plots in slash pine (Pinus elliottii Engelm.) plantations of different initial stocking densities. Further analyses led to potentially useful generalizations concerning basal area growth and yield of even-aged stands. Hypotheses are developed, in terms of the parameters of the Chapman-Richards growth model, for unthinned even-aged stands. These, in turn, provide a basis for extension to thinned even-aged stands. Briefly, with estimates of the model parameters for a given species and site class, and with the growth-rate parameter related to initial stocking in unthinned stands, the basal area development of stands of different initial stocking and subsequent thinning regimes can be predicted. Forest Sci. 19:2-22.

Growth models, stand growth, thinning, basal area increment, yield estimates, density, Picea abies, Pinus elliottii