Estimation of biomass and volume in Miombo Woodland at Kitulangalo Forest Reserve, Tanzania

Abstract

Seventeen sample trees of different miombo species distributed in 1 0 sample plots were excavated and measured for volume and green weight. Samples from the roots and stems were taken and treated in the laboratory for biomass determination of the sample trees.Using these data biomass equations for roots and stems as functions of diameter at breast height (DBH) and total height were developed. Stem volume equations were also developed. These equations were used to estimate biomass and volume per hectare for different tree parts. Twenty per cent of the biomass in miombo woodlands was found to be in the roots and 80% was in the aerial parts. Fifty-one per cent was volume of stems > 15 cm diameter and forty-nine per cent was volume of stem < 15 cm diameter.