Database of 478 allometric equations to estimate biomass for Mexican trees and forests

Abstract

Key message: We present a comprehensive database of 478 allometric equations to estimate biomass of trees and other life forms in Mexican forest and scrubland ecosystems. Context: Accurate estimation of standing biomass in forests is a prerequisite for any approach to carbon storage and a number of additional applications. Aims: To provide a comprehensive database with allometric equations applicable to a large number of tree and shrub species of Mexico. Methods: An intensive literature search was carried out to pull together all publications related to allometric equations in the libraries of the most important forest research institutes across Mexico and the neighboring countries. Results: A total of 478 equations were compiled. Four hundred fourteen equations included a detailed analysis of all compartments of the trees; 7 equations applied to shrubs, 15 to bamboos, and 2 to palms. The collected equations are applicable to a wide variety of forest ecosystems in Mexico ranging from desert scrublands in the North to lowland evergreen rainforests in the South. The attached database of allometric equations is possibly the most extensive compilation of equations currently available for Mexico. Conclusion: The database covers almost 100 % of the individuals recorded in the National Forest Inventory.