Eco-physiological modelling of leaf photosynthesis and adaptation analysis of Chinese ivy (Hedera nepalensis var. sinensis) in an evergreen broad-leaved forest in eastern China.

<span class="AbstractHeading">Abstract  </span>The individual plant of Chinese ivy can produce three types of branches (creepy, climbing, and reproductive) during its development, which adapt to different environmental factors. An eco-physiological model was constructed to simulate leaf net photosynthetic rate (P _N) of Chinese ivy (Hedera nepalensis var. sinensis) in subtropical evergreen broad-leaved forest based on leaf physiological and mathematical analysis. The model integrated the rate-limiting biochemical process of photosynthesis and the processes of stomatal regulation. Influence of environmental factors (solar radiation, temperature, CO₂ concentration, vapour pressure deficit, etc.) on P _N was also considered in our model; its parameters were estimated for leaves on three types of branch in the whole growing season. The model was validated with field data. The model could simulate P _N of leaf on three types of branches accurately. Influence of solar radiation on leaf P _N of three types of branches in different seasons was analyzed through the model with numerical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]