BIOMASS EQUATIONS FOR PINUS-RADIATA IN GIPPSLAND, VICTORIA

Abstract

Published biomass equations, based on a large and widely dispersed sample, for the above-ground components of individual Pinus radiata D. Don trees were tested with a regional sample of up to 62 trees from Gippsland, Victoria. The masses of some components were considerably under-estimated, indicating that the widely based equations are inappropriate to the region. Biomass equations for unpruned trees growing in closed-canopy stands were therefore developed from our data for the Gippsland region. The mass of needles, of live branches, of total branches, of stem wood, of stem bark, and of total stem are given as functions of diameter at breast height, diameter at the base of the live crown, and total height. These equations are considered suitable for use in regional surveys.