Structure and carbon content of a temperate forest associated with a body of water in the state of Durango

Abstract

Temperate forests are communities represented mostly by tall trees dominated by pines and oaks and, to a lesser extent, by other species that inhabit mountainous areas with temperate to cold climates. On the other hand, riparian forests constitute transitional ecosystems, with regular influence of fresh water. In Mexico, the vegetation associated with bodies of water has been scarcely studied despite its ecological importance and its low representativeness in relation to the forested surface of the country. In their ecological role, forests function as a carbon sink and favor the fixation of this in soils. The type of vegetation largely determines the capacity of the different ecosystems to store carbon. For these reasons, this study aims to describe the vertical structure and determine the carbon stored in a gallery forest, in a temperate climate region in the northwest of Mexico. A total of 365 individuals belonging to 10 species were recorded, the Pinus genus being the most representative. The plant community presents a greater
abundance of diameter classes and heights in the lower classes. In addition, a high uniformity was found for the Pretzsch index, with no significant changes in the distribution of species in the three height strata. The recorded carbon storage values were lower than those reported for these communities in other regions. This study provides relevant information for efficient management and conservation or restoration of riparian ecosystems.