Organic carbon distribution and cycling in the Quercus glauca forest at Gotjawal wetland, Jeju Island, Korea

Abstract

Background: This study was conducted from March 2011 to February 2013 in order to evaluate the ecosystem value by examining the organic carbon distribution and cycling in the Quercus glauca forest, evergreen oak community at Seonheul-Gotjawal, Jeju Island. Results: The amount of organic carbon distribution was 124.5 ton C ha-1 in 2011 and 132.63 ton C ha-1 in 2012 for aboveground biomass. And it was 31.13 ton C ha-1 in 2011 and 33.16 ton C ha-1 in 2012 for belowground biomass. In total, the amount of organic carbon distribution in plants was 155.63 and 165.79 ton C ha-1 in 2011 and 2012, respectively. In 2011 and 2012 respectively, the amount of organic carbon distribution was 3.61 and 6.39 ton C ha-1 in the forest floor and it was 78.89 and 100.71 ton C ha-1 in the soil. As shown, most carbon was distributed in plants. Overall, the amount of organic carbon distribution of the Q. glauca forest was 238.13 ton C ha-1 in 2011 and 272.89 ton C ha-1 in 2012. In 2011, the amount of organic carbon fixed in plants through photosynthesis (NPP) was 14.22 ton C ha-1 year-1 and the amount of carbon emission of soil respiration was 16.77 ton C ha-1 year-1. The net ecosystem production (NEP) absorbed by the Q. glauca forest from the atmosphere was 5 ton C ha-1 year-1. Conclusions: The carbon storage value based on such organic carbon distribution was estimated about 23.81 mil won ha-1 in 2011 and 27.29 mil won ha-1 in 2012, showing an annual increment of carbon storage value by 3.48 mil won ha-1. The carbon absorption value based on such NEP was estimated about 500,000 won ha-1 year-1.