Conventional tree height-diameter relationships significantly overestimate aboveground carbon stocks in the Central Congo Basin
2013
Kearsley, E. | Haulleville, de, T. | Hufkens, K. | Kidimbu, A. | Toirambe, B. | Baert, G. | Huygens, D. | Kebede, Y. | Defourny, P. | Bogaert, J. | Beeckman, H. | Steppe, K. | Boeckx, P. | Verbeeck, H.
Policies to reduce emissions from deforestation and forest degradation largely depend on accurate estimates of tropical forest carbon stocks. Here we present the first field-based carbon stock data for the Central Congo Basin in Yangambi, Democratic Republic of Congo. We find an average aboveground carbon stock of 162 +/- 20 Mg C ha(-1) for intact old-growth forest, which is significantly lower than stocks recorded in the outer regions of the Congo Basin. The best available tree height-diameter relationships derived for Central Africa do not render accurate canopy height estimates for our study area. Aboveground carbon stocks would be overestimated by 24% if these inaccurate relationships were used. The studied forests have a lower stature compared with forests in the outer regions of the basin, which confirms remotely sensed patterns. Additionally, we find an average soil carbon stock of 111 +/- 24 Mg C ha(-1), slightly influenced by the current land-use change.
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