Three-dimensional quantification of tree architecture from mobile laser scanning and geometry analysis

Abstract Key message Mobile laser scanning and geometrical analysis revealed relationships between tree geometry seed dispersal mechanism, latitude of origin, as well growth. The structure dynamics a forest are defined by the architecture growth patterns its individual trees. In turn, result from interplay genetic building plans environmental factors. We set out to investigate whether (1) latitudinal adaptations crown shape occur due characteristic solar elevation angles at species’ (2) architectural differences in trees related strategies, (3) relates performance. used mobile (MLS) scan 473 generated three-dimensional data each tree. Tree complexity was then characterized fractal using box-dimension approach along with topological measure top heaviness species studied originated various ranges, but were grown same settings arboretum. found that originating higher latitudes had significantly less top-heavy geometries than those lower latitudes. Therefore, certain degree, seems be determined their original habitat. also wind-dispersed seeds structural animal-dispersed ( p < 0.001). Furthermore, positively performance conclude use 3D MLS combination analysis, including is promising tool architecture.