BIOMASS EQUATIONS AND CHANGES IN CARBON STOCK IN AFFORESTED BLACK PINE (Pinus nigra Arnold. subsp pallasiana (Lamb.) Holmboe) STANDS IN TURKEY

Understanding the differences in biomass equations and factors between natural and plantation forests is of great importance in terms of precise carbon inventory. The purpose of the study was to develop above- and below-ground biomass equations and determine the changes in carbon stock density of Pinus nigra plantations according to stand development stages and canopy cover. Sample plots were selected from different districts taking into account variations in development stages, canopy cover and sites. Above- and below-ground biomass was measured by destructive sampling to construct single tree biomass equations. Stand biomass was calculated by using the equations constructed. Shrub, herbaceous cover, forest floor, and soil samples were taken from each sample plot and analyzed for carbon concentrations. The changes in biomass constants and carbon stocks were evaluated by ANOVA. Basic wood density was calculated as 0.408 t/m(3) while BEFABOVEGROUND as 1.516, BCEFABOVEGROUND as 0.613 t/m(3), root to shoot ratio as 0.179 and carbon factor as 53.86 per cent. Carbon concentrations and carbon stocks were found to be different between the development stages and canopy cover of the stands. Biomass equations and constants of the afforestation forest were also different from the natural forest. It was concluded that forest carbon stocks should be calculated with distinctive constants on the basis of natural and plantation forests for more precise carbon inventory.