State-of-the-art in the Quantification of Biomass in Roots of Forest Formations

ABSTRACT

The aim of this paper is to present an overview of the state-of-the-art for obtaining estimates of biomass and carbon in the roots of forest formations. Initially, we conducted an approach on forest biomass, carbon cycle in the atmosphere, and the role of forests in this context. With respect to forest biomass and carbon, we presented the definitions and methodologies described in the literature to determine and estimate the underground forest biomass; we also presented an overview of the direct and indirect methods of quantification. After that, we conducted a discussion on the variables and models used in the adjustment of equations for the quantification of root biomass in forests, and also listed some of the most commonly used models and equations proposed in the literature.

Keywords:
underground biomass; allometric equations; determination of biomass