Our research lab is also interesting in understanding the different hydrologic and ecologic controls that result in the evolution of landscape patterns. We attempt to explain why shrubs dominate north facing slopes and grasses south facing slopes through the application of a tRIBS+VEGGIE with a dynamic rooting model that simulates the different life strategies of the two plant functional types present. (Image below is of New Mexico). Through and understanding of the processes that create the spatial distribution of vegetation, we can begin to predict what landscape changes may occur under a changing climate.
Ecohydrology: Sivandran Lab 