An approximate height growth and site index model for Quercus sideroxyla Bonpl. in mixed-species stands of Durango, Mexico

Introduction: Predictions of dominant or co-dominant height are an important element in planning forest management with timber production objectives. Objective: To develop dominant height growth and site index (SI) equations for Quercus sideroxyla Bonpl. Materials and methods: The height current annual increment model was fitted, and the age of the sections was estimated from a database of 29 stem-mapped plots. A taper analysis data of 37 trees was also used to reconstruct dominant height growth trajectories. Three equations based on algebraic difference approach (ADA; one anamorphic and two polymorphic) and an equation based on generalized algebraic difference approach (GADA) were used to simultaneously model the dominant height and SI. Results and discussion: The ADA polymorphic equations were statistically better than the anamorphic equation, according to the adjusted coefficient of determination, root mean square error, mean bias, Akaike’s information criterion and log-likelihood; however, the GADA equation was better than the ADA equations. The growth curves were biologically realistic and showed SI classes at a base age of 60 years. Conclusions: The developed equations can be used for decision making in forest management when Q. sideroxyla shows dominance over Pinus species and the main objective is timber production.