IAI-Scientific_Articles_ISP3_077_Published_009: Primary Production estimation in grasslands of Patagonia by ANN analysis of satellite and climatic data

In this paper we investigate its dynamics through ANN analysis of the temporal dynamics of the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index, a quantity derived from satellite observations which shows a strong correlation with the ANPP. Our results show that this analysis identifies important differences between two phytogeographical areas (Patagonian and Monte steppes) and allows for a satisfactory prediction of the NDVI values up to six months ahead.

On the basis of these results, we conclude that the combination of ANNs and satellite data offers a very promising alternative for the prediction of ANPP and forage availability over extensive rangelands, providing a critical piece of information to device sustainable systems in arid and semiarid lands".