Get started
Work

Quantitative Analysis of Superior Structural Features in Hickory Trees Based on Terrestrial LiDAR Point Cloud and Machine Learning

Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The structural characteristics of hickory trees exhibit a significant correlation with their fruit yield. As a distinctive high-quality nut of Zhejiang Province, hickory is a unique high-end dry fruit and woody oil plant in China. However, the long growth cycle and extended maturation period make their management particularly challenging, especially in the absence of high-precision 3D digital models. This study aims to optimize hickory tree management and identify trees with the most optimal structural features. It employs gradient-boosted machine learning modeling based on 23 key tree characteristics, transforming the experiential knowledge of forest farmers into quantifiable parameters. The consensus model achieved an LOOCV average accuracy of 87%, a training set accuracy of 100%, and a test set accuracy of 78%. Through this approach, three structural parameters that significantly impact the hickory tree were identified: the number of branches, the total length of all branches, and the crown base height from the ground. These parameters were used to select trees with superior structural traits. Furthermore, a novel method based on distance metrics was developed to assess the structural similarity of trees. This research not only highlights the importance of incorporating tree structural characteristics into forest management practices but also demonstrates how modern technological tools can enhance the productivity and economic returns of hickory forests. Through this integration, both the sustainability and economic viability of hickory forests are improved.
Source: Forests
DOI: 10.3390/f16060878
Authors: Yi Chen, Yinhui Yang, Zhuangzhi Xu, Lizhong Ding, Weiyu Wang, Jianqin Huang
Language: English
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,137
OpenAlex ID: W4410614847
FWCI:
Cites: 50
Cited by:
Related to: 10