This module introduces some basic plant physiology including features related to light, water, and nutrient dynamics. Emphasis is on factors that determine the productivity of plants and entire forests, as well as on the dynamics of forested ecosystems.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this module, you should be able to:
Explain what is meant by carbon balance at plant and ecosystem levels.
Depict daily courses of plant water relations, and understand the underlying causes.
Describe how and why plants differ in the amount of light they need to maintain a positive carbon balance.
Recognize the deficiency symptoms for the main plant nutrients.
Describe the role of natural fires in some tropical ecosystems.
Fundamental Topics
Instructions: Read Topics 5.1 - 5.5 from the embedded FODE014 e-Notebook below for Module 5.
Self-check Quiz (For certificate learning only)
After reading fundamental concepts for this topic, take up to 5 minutes to take an online self-check quiz for the topic. The main purpose of the quiz is for you to self-check how well you grasp the contents for this topic. You can take the quiz a second time if necessary. When you are ready, click the link Online Quiz 5 to start taking the quiz.
Recommended Supplementary Readings
Ghazoul, J. and D. Sheil. 2010. Tropical Rain Forest Ecology, Diversity, and Conservation. Oxford University Press, Oxford, UK.
Follow the instructions at Module 5 Assignment to complete and submit the assignments for this module.
Summary
This module introduces the dynamics of water, carbon, and nutrients at plant and ecosystem levels. Managers of natural forests need to consider these fundamental factors when implementing silvicultural treatments and in estimating likely growth and yield.
Self Review (For self learning)
Please use the reflection question below as study guide to conduct self-review for the topic:
How is climate change affecting forests and forest management in your area?
