LAI-2000 Plant Canopy Analyzer

The LAI-2000 uses an innovative technique for making rapid, nondestructive measurements of leaf area index (LAI) and other plant canopy structure attributes such as Mean Tip Angle (MTA). Rapid sampling means that cost savings can be substantial when compared to direct measurements made with an area meter. Measurements can be made under a variety of sky conditions, and in canopies ranging in size from short grasses to forests.

The LAI-2000 calculates LAI and other attributes from radiation measurements made with a "fish-eye" optical sensor (148° field-of-view). Measurements made above and below the canopy are used to determine canopy light interception at 5 angles, from which LAI is computed using a model of radiative transfer in vegetative canopies.

Measurements are made by positioning the optical sensor and pressing a button; data are automatically logged into the control unit for storage and LAI calculations. Multiple below-canopy readings and the fish-eye field-of-view assure that LAI calculations are based on a large sample of the foliage canopy. After collecting above-canopy and below-canopy measurements, the control unit performs all calculations and the results are available for immediate on-site inspection.