Application of the generalized state index determination to ecological monitoring of forest in polluted areas

Abstract

A new kind of quantitative model for assessment of state of Scotch pine tree stands growing in industrial polluted areas of Middle Urals is described. The model is based on the use of two types of indices - state indices and generalized state indices - which are calculated from morphological and physiological characteristics (parameters) of tree stands. Morphological parameters include average values of tree diameters, heights, and annual increments while physiological characteristics include chlorophyll a content and photochemical quantum yield of photosystem II in pine needles. It is shown that the use of the combination of diagnostic parameters as in the model described provides more credible assessment of tree stands state than the use of separate diagnostic characteristics.