TITLE:
Impact of Planted Mangrove Species on Biomass Carbon and Other Structural Attributes in Ayeyarwady Region
AUTHORS:
Aung Wunna Tun, Wai Nyein Aye
KEYWORDS:
Species Selection, Biomass, Carbon Storage, Ayeyarwady Region, Myanmar
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Forestry,
Vol.14 No.1,
January
31,
2024
ABSTRACT: This study examines the impact of different mangrove species on the
structure and carbon storage potential of mangrove stands in Myanmar. We
focused on three species: Avicennia officinalis, Avicennia marina and Bruguiera sexangula. These species were selected for their fast growth,
ability to protect against cyclones, and effectiveness in coastal defense
during mangrove restoration. To collect data on tree structure and carbon
storage, we conducted field surveys measuring parameters such as diameter at
breast height (DBH), tree height and crown diameter for each tree.
Non-destructive methods were used for data collection. Using ANOVA and post-hoc
multiple comparison tests, we assessed differences in structure and carbon
stock among the three species. Regression analysis was also performed to
understand the relationship between carbon stock and structural attributes. In
terms of stand densities, we observed variations among species, with pioneer
stage plantations exhibiting higher densities compared to mature stands.
Seedlings showed sufficient regeneration, supporting the sustainability of the
forest. Biomass accumulation varied across species, with A. officinalis having
the highest average biomass. Aboveground biomass showed a strong correlation
with basal area. A. officinalis had the highest total biomass carbon
accumulation at 55.29 ± 20.91 Mg C ha-1, with 77.43% aboveground
carbon and 22.57% belowground carbon. A. marina stored 41.09 ± 11.03 Mg
C ha-1, with a similar distribution of 76.05% aboveground and 23.95%
belowground carbon, while B. sexangula stored 23.23 ± 3.12 Mg C ha-1,
with 70.70% aboveground carbon and 29.30% belowground carbon. The amount of
aboveground carbon was a significant portion of the overall carbon storage and
correlated with tree density, diameter, basal area and height. Our findings
highlight the importance of selecting suitable species and considering
structural attributes for mangrove restoration and carbon storage efforts.
These results provide valuable insights for managing mangrove plantations at
regional and global levels. On average, the reported carbon sequestration was
154.40 MgCO2-eq ha-1.