Above- and belowground distribution of dry matter and carbon biomass of Atlantic beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) in a time sequence

Forests could play an important role in limiting atmospheric CO2 levels. The aims of this work were to ( 1) produce data about the quantities of carbon stored in beech and in its different aerial and underground components, in five stands in a time sequence; ( 2) to clarify quantitatively and qualitatively the fate of carbon stocks during forest exploitation. The methods used to determine the different biomass components, and the variability of carbon levels related to the components and tree-age, are discussed. Total ( aerial and underground) woody dry matter and carbon biomass increased from 24 t/ha to 492 t/ha and from 11 t/ha to 232 t/ha respectively from the 8-year-old stage to the 145-year-old stage. The carbon is mainly stored in the trunk. The underground biomass contribution is considerable: 11% at the 145-year-old stage. The amount of carbon exported during the time sequence, further thinnings and the clear felling, was estimated to be 355 t/ha, that of the wood left on the ground 52 t/ha and in the roots 65 t/ha.