Predicting backscatter-biomass and height-biomass trends using a macroecology model

This study describes the use of a plant structure model from the field of macroecology to make generalized predictions about backscatter-biomass and height-biomass trends from synthetic aperture radar data over forests. A theoretical relationship between canopy height and biomass density is derived. The predicted values of the height exponent are comparable with those from the remote sensing literature. A radiative transfer model parameterized by the macroecology model is also used to predict trends in P-band backscatter. The results imply that backscatter can saturate even for low-opacity canopies and decreasing basal area results in backscatter saturating at lower biomass levels. The theoretical analysis is supported by reference to a range of published results.