Leaf area and solar radiation interception by orange tree top

Abstract

Leaf area changes affect solar radiation interception (K*), interception efficiency (ε_int) and extinction coefficient (k) of an orange tree top (cv. Pêra-Rio). In order to measure radiation transmitted through the crown a mobile sensor was horizontally installed below the crown and 0.65 m from the trunk, moving around it at 3 rpm. The model used for k determination (Monsi & Saeki theory) was assessed with independent data to estimate K*. With absence of leaves, it was detected an intense interference of trunk and branches on ε_int, with a minimum value of 0.52. The results were also distinct in obtaining k, when the best fit was found with a quadratic rather than a linear equation, again influenced by woody structures. Simulation of K* using extinction coefficient (k) was statistically classified as good.

Key words:
Citrus sinensis L. Osbeck; leaf area index; interception efficiency; extinction coefficient