Biomass and carbon stocks of fine litterfall and coarse woody debris in riparian and non-riparian tropical forests of Carmen, Bohol, Philippines
Paper Details
Biomass and carbon stocks of fine litterfall and coarse woody debris in riparian and non-riparian tropical forests of Carmen, Bohol, Philippines
Abstract
Forests play a vital role in terrestrial ecosystems by regulating nutrient cycling, promoting biodiversity, and storing carbon. Fine litterfall and coarse woody debris (CWD) are key contributors to forest carbon pools, yet their relative roles in tropical forests are not well understood. This study quantified the biomass and carbon stocks of fine litterfall and CWD in riparian and non-riparian forests in Carmen, Bohol, Philippines, and assessed their contributions to overall forest carbon sequestration. One-hectare permanent plots were established in each forest type, with subplots and quadrats for collecting litterfall and measuring CWD. Fine litterfall was oven-dried to determine biomass and carbon content, while CWD was measured for diameter, length, decay class, and species-specific wood density. Carbon stocks were calculated using allometric and decay-based models, and differences between forest types were analyzed using two-sample t-tests. Results showed that non-riparian forests had higher fine litterfall biomass (21.58 Mg ha⁻¹) and carbon (10.79 Mg C ha⁻¹) than riparian forests (16.03 Mg ha⁻¹; 8.02 Mg C ha⁻¹). Similarly, CWD biomass and carbon were greater in non-riparian forests (65.58 Mg ha⁻¹; 29.51 Mg C ha⁻¹) than in riparian forests (38.24 Mg ha⁻¹; 17.21 Mg C ha⁻¹), reflecting differences in tree composition, stand age, and decomposition rates. Fine litterfall provides rapid nutrient inputs, whereas CWD serves as a long-term carbon reservoir and structural habitat. Incorporating both components into carbon assessments enhances forest management, conservation planning, and climate change mitigation. The study underscores the importance of conserving both riparian and non-riparian forests to optimize carbon sequestration and maintain ecosystem functions.
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Carl Anthony G. Budiongan, Jairyl B. Oclarit*, Noel T. Lomosbog, 2026. Biomass and carbon stocks of fine litterfall and coarse woody debris in riparian and non-riparian tropical forests of Carmen, Bohol, Philippines. J. Biodiv. Environ. Sci., 28(1), 24-39.
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