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- Title
Effect of selective logging on soil organic carbon dynamics in tropical forests in central and western Africa.
- Authors
Chiti, T.; Perugini, L.; Vespertino, D.; Valentini, R.
- Abstract
Background and aims: Changes in soil organic carbon (SOC) as a consequence of selective logging activities are often neglected in tropical areas, even within activities that aim to promote the permanence of forest C stocks (e.g. REDD+). In this context, we assessed the magnitude of the impact of selective logging on the SOC levels in three chronosequences in Ghana, Cameroon and Gabon. Methods: In each chronosequence, from unlogged forest to forest that was selectively logged at different times in the past, adjacent plots were investigated by sampling the soil at various depths to 1 m. Results: Both SOC concentrations and stocks drastically decrease after selective logging in all sites. The 0-5 cm depth represents the layer with the most evident SOC decreases, particularly in the first and second decades after selective logging. The SOC loss is later stabilised, but the C levels remain lower than those of the unlogged forest 45-50 years after selective logging. Conclusions: In all the investigated chronosequences, the SOC levels are strongly affected by selective logging and the soils continue losing C for many years. In conclusion, SOC measurements should be used to provide precise C emission-removal estimates also for forests managed using sustainable management practices.
- Subjects
WEST Africa; HUMUS; SOIL biology; FORESTS &; forestry; LOGGING
- Publication
Plant & Soil, 2016, Vol 399, Issue 1/2, p283
- ISSN
0032-079X
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.1007/s11104-015-2697-9