Biomass Equations and Carbon Content of Young Black Locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) Trees from Plantations and Coppices on Sandy Soils in South-Western Romanian Plain

Abstract

The aim of the paper was to develop biomass equations for young black locust trees from plantations and coppices established in South-West Romania. A destructive method was used to develop allometric biomass equations and to assess the carbon content of the individual tree and its biomass components. 418 black locust young trees (1-4 years old) from 27 plots established in plantations and coppices growing on sandy soils in Dolj and Olt counties were sampled. Simple linear regression models were developed for biomass estimation. The results showed that root collar diameter was the most accurate biomass predictor, whilst intercept and slope values were similar to those identified in other recent studies. The specific carbon content (mean values) was 45% for roots and 48% for leaves, similar to the values provided by the Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change.