Overview of Establishment Parameterization in Ecological Dynamic Models

Establishment submodule is an essential component of the parameterization of population dynamics in ecological dynamic models that describe the full cycle of regeneration by neglecting many of the involved processes, such as flowering, fertilization, and germination. Observations and models show that these processes critically affect ecosystem communities and succession. However, the current parameterizations of establishment are quite different, and have many uncertainties. To develop a more reasonable parameterization of establishment, the factors affecting seed production and spread, seed pools, as well as seed germination in nature are summarized. Then, the parameterizations in forest gap models as well as DGVMs are commented. In addition, the uncertainties introduced by the establishment scheme, and the possible ways to improving it, are also discussed.