Estimating the age-dependent changes in carbon stocks of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) stands in Turkey

Abstract

Key message Simulated and observed carbon stocks in Scots pine forests varied considerably with stand age. The contribution of biomass to the total forest carbon stocks increased and that of dead organic matter decreased with increasing stand age. Context Understanding changes in forest carbon stocks over time is important to estimate carbon inventory. Although Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) is a main species in Turkey, studies on such changes are still lacking. Aims We aimed to estimate the changes in carbon stocks, with stand age, of Scots pine stands in Turkey using field work data and a forest carbon model (FBDC model). Methods Biomass and dead organic matter carbon stocks were investigated to adjust the forest carbon model and to verify the model estimates. Forest carbon stocks with regards to stand age were simulated. Results The simulated carbon stocks were generally in clear agreement with the observed values on a stand scale. Changes in simulated and observed carbon stocks of biomass and dead organic matter varied with stand age. The contribution of biomass to total forest carbon stocks increased, and that of dead organic matter decreased, with increasing stand age. Conclusion We found that the carbon stocks in each pool and their contribution to the total forest carbon stocks varied with stand age. Our results are expected to contribute to the understanding of annual changes in the carbon stocks of Turkish forests.