Modeling of aboveground tree stand-level biomass in Erukot Forest of Oban Division, Cross River National Park, Nigeria

Abstract

This research estimated aboveground tree stand level Biomass in Erukot Forest of Oban Division, Cross River National Park. A total of 872 individual trees were identified and measured for diameter at breast height and total height (dbh ≥ 5cm). The 872 individual trees spread across 51 species belonging to 25 different tree families. Simple random sampling was used with sampling intensity of 0.3% to lay 15 nested plots (7m x 7m, 25m x 25m and 35m x 35m). Diameter at breast height, total height and specific density of each wood species were used to determine aboveground biomass for each tree. Conversion factors were applied to estimate stand level green and dry biomass, sequestered carbon and carbon dioxide (CO₂) emission in the study area. Simple linear regression models were fitted into the stand level growth data for the forest (basal area and volume). The mean diameter at breast height and mean total height were 38.5cm and 18.5m respectively. Mean basal area of 39.8 m2 ha^-1 was obtained with a mean volume of 177.3 m3 ha^-1 . Average green biomass, dry biomass, carbon stock and carbon-dioxide emission of 521.8113 ton ha^-1 , 341.5880 ton ha^-1 , 183.196 ton ha-1 and 694.2067 ton ha^-1 respectively were obtained in the study area. Stand level biomass model developed for the forest showed that common logarithm of volume per hectare is significantly related to common logarithm of stand biomass (R2 = 58%). The actual and predicted biomasses were not significantly different (Paired T-test at p ˂ 0.05). Estimated bias of 0.10% for the stand biomass model means that the developed model can be used to predict the aboveground biomass of the study area without any adjustment. The research has provided easy to use regression model for determining aboveground biomass at stand level. This is very useful for carbon trade and assessment of carbon-dioxide emissions through deforestation in the study area. The model is also a tool for assessing the wood productivity of the study area and for better management of the park.

Keyword: Sequestered carbon, aboveground biomass, dry biomass, conversion factor