Carbon stock estimation in mangrove area of Pante Bayam, Aceh Province

Abstract

Pante Bayam is a coastal area in Madat District, East Aceh Regency, Aceh Province. This area is well known for its natural mangrove ecosystems and the potential for biodiversity conservation and blue carbon storage. This study investigates carbon stocks and CO2 adsorption in mangrove at Pante Bayam, Aceh. Data were gathered using basal area measurements, biomass estimation, and carbon stock and absorption calculations based on IPCC standards and current field data. The results showed that the Xylocarpus granatum species dominated the stands with the highest basal area value of 9,402 m2/ha. The total carbon stock stored reached 74.48 tons/ha, consisting of 30.41 tons/ha of carbon aboveground and 44.06 tons/ha belowground. Meanwhile, carbon dioxide absorption by all mangrove species was recorded at 58,589.22 kg or 0.249 tons/ha, with the largest contribution also coming from X. granatum. These findings confirm that the mangrove forest on Pante Bayam has significant potential as a blue carbon sink area and supports ecosystem-based conservation policies. Management strategies that maintain dominant species and complex stand structures are highly recommended to maintain the sustainability of mangrove ecological functions in the coastal areas of Aceh.