Using fibre-optic sensing for non-invasive, continuous dendrometry of mature tree trunks

Dendrometry is the main non-invasive macroscopic technique commonly used in plant physiology and ecophysysiology studies. Over the years several types of dendrometric techniques have been developed, each with their respective strengths and drawbacks. Automatic and continuous monitoring solutions are being developed, but are still limited, particularly for non-invasive monitoring of large-diameter trunks. In this study, we propose a new type of automated dendrometer based on distributed fibre-optic sensing that continuously measures the change in stem circumference, is non-invasive and has no upper limit on the trunk diameter on which it can be installed. We performed a 3-month validation experiment during which we deployed a fibre-optic cable at three localities around the trunks of two specimens of Brachychiton. We verified the accuracy of this new method through comparison with a conventional point-dendrometer, and we observed a consistent time lag between the various measurement locations that varies with the meteorological conditions. Finally, we discuss the feasibility of the fibre-based dendrometer in the context of existing dendrometric techniques and practical experimental considerations.