A multiscale model is presented to simulate the impact of hydrologic changes on the regeneration of a cypress swamp in southern Illinois. This model, SISM (Southern Illinois Swamp Model), captures three processes that operate at different spatial and temporal scales: cypress seed dispersal and germination, seedling growth and mortality, and the succession of saplings and mature trees. In SISM, the life history of cypress is represented in a coherent manner, spatio-temporal scales are related to different life phases, processes are consistently integrated, and the interactions amongst the multiple processes are effectively simulated. Three scenarios reflecting water management alternatives were tested and discussed. The results show that (1) the modeling output under current water variability is comparable with various field studies, (2) a stable hydrologic scenario restricts the spatial distribution of cypress, and (3) a more variable hydrologic regime does not necessarily result in a wide regeneration of cypress.
Geographical and Environmental Modelling
Volume 6, 2002 - Issue 1