SLIM software: a simple light interception model for multi-species, multi-strata forests

The SLIM software computes canopy openness (a long-term index of light availability) in a forest stand based on simple tree geometry characteristics. The model also provides 3D visualization of the stand and simulated hemispherical photograph outputs to allow users to check the quality of input data and model predictions. This paper provides an overview of the model by describing the input data required, the main assumptions and algorithms and the outputs