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A roadmap for improving the representation of photosynthesis in Earth system models.

Authors :
Rogers A
Medlyn BE
Dukes JS
Bonan G
von Caemmerer S
Dietze MC
Kattge J
Leakey AD
Mercado LM
Niinemets Ü
Prentice IC
Serbin SP
Sitch S
Way DA
Zaehle S
Source :
The New phytologist [New Phytol] 2017 Jan; Vol. 213 (1), pp. 22-42.
Publication Year :
2017

Abstract

Accurate representation of photosynthesis in terrestrial biosphere models (TBMs) is essential for robust projections of global change. However, current representations vary markedly between TBMs, contributing uncertainty to projections of global carbon fluxes. Here we compared the representation of photosynthesis in seven TBMs by examining leaf and canopy level responses of photosynthetic CO <subscript>2</subscript> assimilation (A) to key environmental variables: light, temperature, CO <subscript>2</subscript> concentration, vapor pressure deficit and soil water content. We identified research areas where limited process knowledge prevents inclusion of physiological phenomena in current TBMs and research areas where data are urgently needed for model parameterization or evaluation. We provide a roadmap for new science needed to improve the representation of photosynthesis in the next generation of terrestrial biosphere and Earth system models.<br /> (No claim to original US Government works New Phytologist © 2016 New Phytologist Trust.)

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1469-8137
Volume :
213
Issue :
1
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
The New phytologist
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
27891647
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1111/nph.14283