Computer simulation of sphenopsid architecture. I. Principles and methodology.

Area of Science:

• Botany
• Paleobotany
• Computational Biology

Background:

• Plant morphology and growth patterns are complex.
• Existing modelling systems may not adequately capture the nuances of plant development.
• Hallé et al. (1978) established principles for plant architectural features.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the AMAP (Arbres et Modifications Architecturales) modelling system for plant morphology.
• To detail the methodology, including architectural templates and statistical data processing.
• To demonstrate the system's applicability to plants with limited specimens, such as Equisetum telmateia.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing an architectural template approach.
• Employing statistical processing of morphological data from sample plants.
• Modeling plant growth by adding discrete morphological entities (axial components, branch orders, extension units, internodes).

Main Results:

• The AMAP system successfully models the morphological development of plant structures.
• The methodology is adaptable for plants with limited or fragmented specimens.
• Visual representations of plants at different ontogenetical stages can be generated.

Conclusions:

• The AMAP modelling system provides a robust method for reproducing plant growth shapes.
• This approach is highly relevant for reconstructing incomplete fossil plants.
• The system enhances understanding of plant growth, branching strategies, and geometric parameters.