SOME ASPECTS OF CARBON-DIOXIDE EXCHANGE BETWEEN ATMOSPHERE AND INDIAN PLANT BIOTA

A study has been undertaken to understand some of the aspects of carbon-dioxide exchange between the atmosphere and Indian plant biota. The net primary production and the total pool of carbon in forests, cultivated land, and grassland during 1980 is estimated. The flux of carbon dioxide due to deforestation and the consumption of firewood is also estimated. The total pool of carbon in a forest ecosystem shows a very low value when compared with the size and climate of the country. On the other hand, carbon-dioxide emission due to firewood combustion shows a very high value.