Validation of canopy transpiration in a mixed-species foothill eucalypt forest using a soil-plant-atmosphere model

- We measured forest water use in a native mixed-species eucalypt forest for 222 days.
- Transpiration was strongly driven by atmospheric VPD.
- We validated a soil-plant-atmosphere model (SPA).
- Leaf area index was the most important input for estimating forest water use.
- SPA contributes to water resource management tools in south-east Australia.

SummaryStudies of the hydrology of native eucalypt forests in south-east Australia have focused on ash-type eucalypt species that are largely confined to Victoria and Tasmania. Mixed species foothill forests comprise the largest proportion of the forest estate in south-east Australia, yet are poorly known hydrologically. The ability to predict forest transpiration, both with reasonable accuracy and in response to changes in the environment, is essential for catchment management.A soil-plant-atmosphere model (SPA) was validated for 222 days in a mature, mixed species forest of north-east Victoria using measurements of overstorey transpiration (Eucalyptus radiata and Eucalyptus goniocalyx) and site-specific climate and vegetation parameters. There was a stronger relationship between average daily transpiration (0.71 mm day−1) and daily minimum relative humidity (R2 = 0.71), than between average daily transpiration and daily maximum temperature (R2 = 0.65). Stand water use could be predicted best from vapour pressure deficit (R2 = 0.89).SPA successfully predicted stand transpiration (R2 = 0.85) over a range of soil water and climatic conditions. A sensitivity analysis suggests that among the various required inputs, leaf area index (LAI) was the most important, and accurate estimates of LAI could significantly improve estimation of stand transpiration.