From litter to trees: estimating the total carbon stock in a secondary Brazilian Atlantic Forest

Abstract

Tropical forests are important sinks of carbon. Numerous studies on aboveground biomass (AGB) have been undertaken in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, predominantly focusing on trees. However, few studies have comprehensively addressed all forest components, from litter to trees. Here, we assess the biomass and carbon contributions of multiple forest components in a selectively logged, secondary Atlantic Forest fragment in Minas Gerais, Southeastern Brazil. In six permanent plots (50 × 20 m), we measured live and dead trees, lianas, bamboo, fallen coarse woody debris, and litter. Biomass was estimated using dry/moist weight and specific allometric equations, revealing a total AGB of 165.48 Mg ha− 1. AGB distribution was as follows: live trees (80.0%), bamboo (7.3%), standing dead trees (4.0%), woody debris (3.0%), litter (2.9%), and lianas (2.8%). While live trees stored the most carbon–especially medium and large trees–other elements, notably bamboo, and necromass, made important contributions. Considering the projected increase in secondary forests in future global scenarios, our findings provide crucial data to support the inclusion of secondary forest components in carbon conservation policies.