The Optimal Timing of Reproduction

Abstract

The optimal timing of reproductive effort is determined in a model which takes into account the physiological limits on the growth and biomass production of the [plant] individuals, the survival function of the population and the reutilization of somatic biomass for reproduction at the end of the season. Total reproductive biomass is maximized by a step transition from somatic growth to reproductive production. Optimal transition is at a biomass which is much less than the maximally attainable biomass. Optimal transition time is an increasing function of the survival and of the reutilization conversion factor. Much higher optimal transition biomass is expected where reproductive success depends not only on the production of reproductive biomass but is also an increasing function of somatic biomass.