LAI measurements for the assessment of successional trajectories in submontane non-serotinous Pinus spp. forests

This dataset compiles field measurements obtained with a LAI-2200C Plant Canopy Analyzer (LI-COR Biosciences, Lincoln, NE, USA) to generate continuous LAI profiles and capture the structural variability of submontane Pinus spp. forests. The measurements provide detailed information on canopy gap distribution, both vertically and horizontally, allowing for the assessment of successional trajectories in non-serotinous pine stands. Measurements were carried out by comparing light transmittance above the canopy (reference readings) and below the canopy (sample readings). The difference between the two was used to estimate LAI through radiative models assuming random leaf distribution and ellipsoidal orientation, which may not be accurate for all species or canopy types. Instrument: LAI-2200C Plant Canopy Analyzer (LI-COR Biosciences, Lincoln, NE, USA). Spectral range: 320–490 nm. Measurement geometry: Five concentric rings with zenith angles of 7°, 23°, 38°, 53°, and 68°. Sampling protocol: Measurements were taken every 0.5 m during floristic inventories (~900 samples). A maximum optical coverage of 270° was used to exclude the operator from the field of view. Data processing: FV2200 software (LI-COR Biosciences, Lincoln, NE, USA). Quality control: Measurements under unstable light conditions were avoided.