Biomass by an organ in understory vegetation: Study comparison among upper story tree species

Abstract

The biomass of trees older than 40 years was calculated for three species: Swietenia macrophylla, Pinus merkusii, and Acacia auriculiformis. To estimate the tree biomass, we considered the diameter at breast height (dbh) and tree height (h) as significant variables. Cutting down trees in the study area was strictly prohibited to prevent irreversible damage to the ecosystem. Our strategy is to implement a non-destructive approach to estimate the biomass of each tree in the plantation forest. On the other hand, we perform separation and destruction of the understory parts to obtain a more specific green weight by an organ. Hence, measuring upper-story tree biomass using a non-destructive approach through existing equations is suitable for the conditions at the site. The main plot was 0.25 ha for each plantation and divided into subplots of 25 m2 to measure the understory. We found the S. macrophylla plant had a larger stem biomass than the other plants but had a small understory. In contrast, A. auriculiformis had the biggest understory but the smallest stem biomass. It is necessary to create more effective and non-destructive approaches to predict and quantify tree biomass broadly to facilitate better quantification of carbon sequestration.