Abstract:
The present study was the first to develop total tree, stem and branches volume models for rainforests in southeastern
Africa based on destructive sampling. The number of sample trees was 60 and diameter at breast height (dbh) and total
tree height (h) ranged from 6 to 117 cm and from 6.4 m to 50 m, respectively. Large parts of the total volume and stem volume
variations were explained by the models (Pseudo-R2 ranged from 0.85 to 0.93) and they performed relatively well over
different size classes. When considering the challenges in height measurements in rainforests, we in general recommend
applying model 3 with dbh only as independent variable. For large trees we recommend model 2 (dbh and h as independent
variables) because of the moderating effect h has on volume predictions. If accurate stem volumes are needed for forestry
licensing or for calculating compensation of timber loss, we also recommend model 2. As long as the allometry of the trees
obviously is not different from that of our study site, the developed models may also be applied for rainforests elsewhere in
Tanzania, but further testing of the models is also recommended.
