The leaf area of an Australian heathland with reference to seasonal changes and the contribution of individual species

Abstract

The leaf area of an Australian heathland was determined on harvested material for a series of monthly harvests over 2 years. The leaf area index (LAI) varied from 1 .8 to 3.2. Seasonal growth flushes accounted for the high values, while leaf fall induced by water stress restored the equilibrium to approximately 2.0.

The dominant shrub, Leptospermum myrsinoides, contributed 53.5% of the total leaf area, and this species alone caused the seasonal fluctuations in community area. Only three other species contributed more than 5 % to the total.

Community growth was characterized by the behaviour of L. myrsinoides. Detailed analyses of this species showed the need for seasonal measurements to fully describe the LAI of evergreen communities.