Biomass, carbon stocks estimation and predictive modeling in mango based land uses on degraded lands in Indian Sub-Himalayas

This study aims to develop predictive models for standing stocks of biomass and carbon of an entire tree based on harvested biomass in mango (Mangifera indica L.) alongwith intercrops n mango based land use (MBLU). Collar diameter (CD) as a growth parameter can be used as a reliable predictor for mango biomass estimation of standing stocks as it has a strong relationship with mango biomass. Thirteen popular predictive growth models were attempted for biomass prediction using CD as predictor (independent variable) in mango alone (M), intercrops alone (IC) and mango with intercrops (MI). The harvested biomass (tha−1) ranged (1.4–97.7, 4.9–2.6 and 1.4–100.3) in M, IC and MI, respectively. The stored carbon, emitted carbon, mitigated carbon and total carbon stock ranged 0.70–39.7, 0.00–8.50, 0.70–31.2 and 0.70–48.20 Mgha−1, respectively in M and MI of MBLU in humid climate of Indian Sub-Himalayas. Out of 13 fitted models and Negative Exponential model gave the best fit of the data based on validation criteria of adjusted R2, lowest AIC and BIC values. Hence, these models were found to be highly useful for estimating mango biomass and carbon stocks with and without intercrops in standing situations.