CARBON SEQUESTRATION IN RIPARIAN AGROFORESTRY SYSTEMS OF THE TLAPANECO RIVER BASIN

Abstract

Objective: Estimate the carbon stored in the arboreal component of mamey sapote (Pouteria sapota Jacq.) of riparian agroforestry systems of the Tlapaneco river basin, in the state of Guerrero, Mexico.
Design/methodology/approach: The number of trees was counted and their diameter was measured at breast height in quadrants of 400 m2 on 110 agroforestry parcels in the towns of Ixcateopan, Alpoyeca, Tlaquiltepec and Coyahualco. Aboveground biomass (B) in kg dry matter per tree was estimated with an allometric available for tropical and subtropical species.
Results: The total carbon stored per hectare in the tree component of mamey sapote was 20,089 kg/ha, while the total carbon stored in riparian agroecosystems of the Tlapaneco river basin was 3,471,400 kg.
Study limitations/Implications: The unavailability of specific allometric equations for mamey sapote limited a more accurate estimate.
Findings/conclusions: The arboreal component of mamey sapote is an important reservoir of carbon in the agroforestry riparian systems of the Tlapaneco river basin.