Modeling Local Vapor Pressure Deficit Using Drone-based Photogrammetry Data
Description
This dataset supports the research article, "Local atmospheric vapor pressure deficit as a microclimate index to assess tropical rainforest riparian restoration success." It contains Photogrammetry-derived point cloud data (.las files) representing 3D forest structure from 30 plots across five riparian restoration stages. The dataset also includes R code used for processing this point-cloud data to extract key forest structural metrics (provided in code metrics.extraction.las), R code for modeling and mapping vapor pressure deficit (VPD) using these metrics, and field-collected microclimatic data (provided as plot.data.xlsx), and the resulting VPD model (code, model). In addition, all data collected in the field to allow comparing microclimate between sites are available in (data.xlsx). These data allow for comprehensive analysis and replication of the study's findings. Research Hypothesis: Riparian forest restoration success in tropical rainforests can be quantified using vapor pressure deficit (VPD) as a microclimate indicator. Higher VPD values indicate lower restoration success due to increased stress on vegetation. Forest structure, measurable through photogrammetry, significantly influences VPD. The data demonstrates a strong negative correlation between forest structure (particularly height metrics like the 50th and 75th percentiles of height distribution) and VPD. Old-growth forests exhibit significantly lower VPD values than younger, restored forests, highlighting the role of mature forest canopies in buffering VPD. Early-stage restoration sites show consistently higher VPD, exceeding a threshold (1.0 kPa) associated with negative impacts on ecosystem functioning. Notable Findings: VPD as a Restoration Indicator: VPD effectively differentiates restoration stages and is a reliable indicator of restoration success. Forest Structure's Role: The study quantifies the strong influence of forest structure on VPD, showing that taller, denser canopies effectively buffer VPD, leading to more stable microclimatic conditions. Spatial Mapping: Spatial VPD mapping, enabled by photogrammetry, offers valuable insights for targeted interventions in forest management. Canopy Buffering: Mature forests exhibit a significantly higher capacity to buffer VPD fluctuations compared to younger forests, which can be used to inform restoration strategies and site selection. The findings support the hypothesis that VPD, in combination with photogrammetrically derived forest structural metrics, can effectively assess forest restoration success. Spatial mapping enables more precise targeting of restoration activities and enhances site selection and adaptive management strategies based on the microclimatic conditions of specific areas.