IBG-2, Research Area Ecosystem Dynamics
Remote Sensing and Photosynthesis Group

We intend to monitor spatio-temporal variations of photosynthesis from the single leaf to the ecosystem using established and new remote sensing techniques, which are based on a sound physiological background. Our current methodological focus is on hyperspectral reflectance and active and passive fluorescence approaches.

The results provide insight into the biophysical regulatory properties of photosynthesis of tissues, leaves, canopies and ecosystems also closing the gap between the well-understood, biochemical, biophysical and molecular properties of photosynthetic light conversion and remote sensing techniques, which to date are largely correlation based. Our research is imbedded in a network of international cooperation’s and the results are used for ecosystem screening and management in times of global change.

Projects

• Development of active and passive fluorescence and hyperspectral field-methods to quantify photosynthetic efficiency and transpiration
• Measuring and modeling resource use efficiency, photosynthesis, and water-fluxes in plant ecosystems
• Preparatory studies for the development of the European fluorescence satellite FLEX
• Early detection of resistance and optimized resource use efficiency in crops

Leader: Dr. Uwe Rascher