The Relationship of Tree Stand Structure Parameters with Aboveground Carbon as an Estimation Carbon Storage in Pancer Cengkrong Mangrove, Trenggalek, East Java

Abstract

Mangrove ecosystems play a vital role in mitigating climate change by sequestering atmospheric carbon. This study investigates the relationship between tree stand structure and aboveground carbon storage in the Pancer Cengkrong Mangrove, Trenggalek, East Java. The research aimed to analyze stand characteristics, estimate carbon biomass, and evaluate the influence of structural parameters on carbon sequestration capacity. A purposive sampling method was employed, focusing on tree stands with a diameter at breast height (DBH) ≥ 10cm. The results indicated that DBH had the strongest influence on carbon storage, showing a positive correlation with biomass accumulation. Tree height had a lesser impact, while tree density affected carbon storage depending on species composition and stand maturity. Station 1, dominated by Rhizophora apiculata, showed higher carbon biomass (268.45 tons/ha) and storage (126.17 tons/ha) compared to Station 2, where Avicennia marina was dominant, with lower biomass (86.33 tons/ha) and carbon storage (40.58 tons/ha). Regression analysis confirmed that DBH significantly explained the variation in carbon storage, with coefficients of determination (R²) of 96.63% at Station 1 and 64.57% at Station 2. These findings highlight the importance of species selection in mangrove restoration efforts to maximize carbon sequestration. Future research should focus on belowground carbon storage and the long-term stability of rehabilitated mangrove forests. This study enhances our understanding of mangrove carbon dynamics and offers insights for optimizing climate change mitigation strategies.