Leaf Area Index as an Effective parameter in Ecohydrological processes and Introduction of its Measurement Methods

Measurement of leaf area index (LAI) is of great importance in various scientific fields such as environment, natural resources, plant sciences, agriculture and environment and etc. Leaf area index is one of the most important environmental and ecological parameters; Because the comprehensive and complete information from the leaf area index is useful for extensive analyzes about the performance of plants and the surrounding environment, especially the hydrological and biochemical cycle, and is used as a key criterion in studies related to plant productivity, carbon cycle, and energy balance in ecosystems. In this article, while examining the concepts and importance of leaf area index, various methods of measuring leaf area index are described in detail. Different types of devices and methods used to measure the leaf area index have been examined in detail and the advantages and limitations of each have been stated. This review article can provide researchers and students with important results for choosing the best measurement method based on the study environment and research objectives. Also, suggestions for the development of new methods of measuring the leaf area index and future research in this field have been presented.