Assessment of biomass and carbon storage in forest vegetation of Kannapuram Range, Eluru District, Andhra Pradesh using field-based measurements

Abstract

Forests are essential for mitigating climate change through biomass accumulation and carbon sequestration. This study evaluates biomass and carbon storage in the forest vegetation of Kannapuram Range, Eluru District, Andhra Pradesh, using field measurements of diameter at breast height (DBH), height, tree density, and wood density. Eight 0.04 ha plots (20 m × 20 m) were sampled across various beats, with biomass estimated using a volume-based approach incorporating a form factor for stem taper. The average stem biomass was 152.3 Mg ha⁻¹, corresponding to a carbon stock of 76.15 Mg C ha⁻¹ and a CO₂ equivalent of 279.47 Mg CO₂ ha⁻¹. Statistical analyses, including regression models and diversity indices, revealed a significant DBH-biomass relationship, with high species diversity enhancing sequestration potential. The estimated carbon sequestration rate, based on comparable Indian tropical dry deciduous forests, is approximately 3.8 Mg C ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹. These findings underscore Kannapuram Range’s role as a carbon sink and provide a foundation for sustainable forest management.