Abstract
The process of photosynthesis results in the conversion of light energy to chemical energy. This energy input by primary producers is used either to do work or else it is stored. The stored chemical energy is our prime concern here, since it is this biomass which can be harvested for food, fuel, fibre or other uses. Biomass is obviously of equal importance in natural ecosystems since it provides the organic molecules and energy source for all other trophic levels. This chapter is confined to the measurement of biomass and net primary production in herbaceous species. Although the theory behind the measurement of these parameters in trees and shrubs is the same, the techniques often require dimensional analysis and sampling of reference units, which are outside the scope of this discussion.
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Roberts, M.J., Long, S.P., Tieszen, L.L., Beadle, C.L. (1993). Measurement of plant biomass and net primary production of herbaceous vegetation. In: Hall, D.O., Scurlock, J.M.O., Bolhàr-Nordenkampf, H.R., Leegood, R.C., Long, S.P. (eds) Photosynthesis and Production in a Changing Environment. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-011-1566-7_1
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-011-1566-7_1
Publisher Name: Springer, Dordrecht
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