Biomass and carbon projection models in Hardwickia binata Roxb. vis a vis estimation of its carbon sequestration potential under arid environment

Abstract

Hardwickia binata is an important fodder and timber tree of arid regions.Assessment of its biomass and carbon content is essential, for taking management decisions, and in ecosystem modelling. Seven models, namely, logistic, Gompertz, Chapman, Hill, Allometric, Linear and Monomolecular were tested for this purpose by using diameter at breast height (DBH). Allometric model (Y = a × DBHb) was found best performing with AIC value of 12.65. This model was then used to develop biomass equations for different tree components using DBH as an independent variable. Developed equations showed high R2 values (0.894 to 0.989). These equations were then used to assess the biomass and carbon stock of H. binata plantations of different age groups. Total biomass of plantations ranged between 63.61 Mg ha−1 (14 years) and 139.55 Mg ha−1 (36 years) with the corresponding carbon stock of 28.39 Mg ha−1 and 63.35 Mg ha−1 which translates into carbon sequestration rate of 1.60 and 2.02 Mg ha−1 a−1 , respectively. The developed equations provide a realistic assessment of biomass productivity and carbon stock with low error margin and would thus be very useful in taking suitable management decisions and in ecosystem modelling to explain the impact of carbon management to policymakers.