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Expanding forest research with terrestrial LiDAR technology

Author

Listed:
  • Eduardo Eiji Maeda

    (University of Helsinki
    Finnish Meteorological Institute (FMI))

  • Benjamin Brede

    (GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences)

  • Kim Calders

    (Ghent University)

  • Mathias Disney

    (University College London
    UCL Geography)

  • Martin Herold

    (GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences)

  • Emily R. Lines

    (University of Cambridge)

  • Matheus Henrique Nunes

    (University of Maryland)

  • Pasi Raumonen

    (Tampere University)

  • Miina Rautiainen

    (Aalto University)

  • Ninni Saarinen

    (University of Eastern Finland)

  • Iris Starck

    (University of Helsinki
    University of Helsinki)

  • Yanjun Su

    (Chinese Academy of Sciences
    China National Botanical Garden)

  • Jonathan Terschanski

    (University of Helsinki)

  • Louise Terryn

    (Ghent University)

Abstract

The three-dimensional arrangement of plant components, both within and among individual trees, is fundamental for characterizing forest ecosystems. This structure not only influences but also responds to environmental changes, playing a key role in regulating light regimes, forest productivity, as well as physiological and biophysical processes. Over the past few decades, terrestrial laser scanning (TLS, or terrestrial LiDAR) has provided a unique perspective of this 3D structure, offering new insights into ecological processes and forest disturbances, as well as enhancing structural assessments in forest and carbon inventories. Here, we examine recent advancements in TLS and its applications in forest science. We also explore how increasing computational power, alongside the rise of artificial intelligence, is empowering researchers to tackle more complex questions, paving the way for breakthroughs in understanding forest ecosystem dynamics in a changing world.

Suggested Citation

  • Eduardo Eiji Maeda & Benjamin Brede & Kim Calders & Mathias Disney & Martin Herold & Emily R. Lines & Matheus Henrique Nunes & Pasi Raumonen & Miina Rautiainen & Ninni Saarinen & Iris Starck & Yanjun , 2025. "Expanding forest research with terrestrial LiDAR technology," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 16(1), pages 1-13, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:16:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-025-63946-6
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-63946-6
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