Biomass prediction models for Colophospermum Mopane (Mopane) in Botswana
Date
2009-03
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch
Abstract
The aim of this study was to develop biomass prediction models for the determination of total
aboveground biomass for mopane at three (3) study sites in Botswana. Thereafter, based on the pooled
data from the three (3) study sites, recommend one cross-site biomass prediction model that could be
used for the indirect estimation of the total aboveground biomass for mopane in Botswana.
All the data were collected by destructive sampling from three (3) study sites in Botswana. Stratified
random sampling was based on the stem diameter at breast height (1.3 m from the ground). A total of
30 sample trees at each study site were measured, felled and weighed. The 30 sample trees were
distributed equally between six DBH classes (Five sample trees per DBH class). Thereafter, using the
data from these sample trees, site-specific biomass prediction models for the indirect estimation of
total aboveground biomass for mopane were developed as a function of the following independent
variables: stem diameter at 0.15 m from the ground; stem diameter at 1.3 m from the ground; stem
diameter at 3 m from the ground; crown diameter; and total tree height. The data from the sites were
pooled together to develop cross-site biomass prediction models as a function of the given independent
variables.
The biomass prediction model that provided the best fit at Serule was a linear equation estimated by
means of the stem diameter at 1.3 m, while in Sexaxa the biomass prediction model that provided the
best fit was estimated by means of the stem diameter at 0.15 m. The biomass prediction model that
provided the best fit at the Tamacha site was estimated by means of the stem diameter at 1.3 m. On
the basis of the collected data, cross-site biomass prediction models were developed. The cross-site
biomass prediction model that provided the best fit was developed from the stem diameter at 1.3 m.
This relationship was adopted as the prediction model for the indirect biomass estimation of
Colophospermum mopane (mopane) in Botswana.
Description
Thesis (MFor (Forest and Wood Science))--University of Stellenbosch, 2009.
Keywords
Dissertations -- Forest and wood science, Theses -- Forest and wood science