Iranian Journal of Forest

Iranian Journal of Forest

Allometric Equations for Leaf Carbon Sequestration and Leaf Area Index in Anagyris foetida L.: Implications for Conservation in Zagros Forests

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors
1 Prof., Dept. of Forest Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Ilam University, P.O. Box, 69391-77111, Ilam, I.R. Iran.
2 2Assisstant Prof., Dept. of Statistics and Mathematics, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Ilam University, P.O. Box, 69391-77111, Ilam, I.R Iran.
3 Assisstant Prof., Dept. of Statistics and Mathematics, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Ilam University, P.O. Box, 69391-77111, Ilam, I.R Iran.
10.22034/ijf.2026.547702.2072
Abstract
Zagros forests play a significant role in carbon sequestration; however, the contribution of rare species such as Anagyris foetida L. (Ghareh Ghaj)—with unique traits such as thick leaves and summer dormancy—has been less studied. This research developed, for the first time, species-specific allometric models for this endangered tree to provide a non-destructive estimation of leaf carbon storage and LAI1. The study was conducted in the pure habitat of the species within the Sardasir Chaleh basin (Gilan-e-Gharb). Using systematic line sampling, 30 healthy trees were selected, and biometric parameters (height, crown diameter, and crown area) were measured. Leaf samples were collected from three crown sections and analyzed in the laboratory to determine dry biomass (gravimetric method), organic carbon percentage (combustion in a furnace), and leaf area (leaf area meter). LAI and SLA2 were calculated and scaled up to the forest stand level using the "Mean Tree" method and a density of 253 trees per hectare. Allometric relationships were analyzed using linear, logarithmic, and power regression models. Results showed that mean LCS3, CO₂ uptake, and leaf dry biomass per hectare were 468.13 kg of carbon, 1718.03 kg, and 975.27 kg, respectively. The average LAI at the individual-tree and per-hectare levels was 1.6 and 0.302, respectively. Statistical analyses revealed a strong and significant correlation between crown area and both leaf biomass and LCS, with the linear model based on crown area providing the best fit for predicting LCS (R² = 0.719). In contrast, LAI was only significantly correlated with leaf dry biomass. Overall, the results indicate that, despite its prolonged dormancy period, this species contributes considerably to leaf carbon storage in Zagros forests due to its relatively high density and distinct crown architecture. The simple, crown area-based models presented offer a practical and cost-effective tool for carbon monitoring, ecosystem service valuation, and the development of conservation strategies for this endangered species and similar Mediterranean ecosystems, representing a significant step toward sustainable forest management.
Keywords
Subjects

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Volume 17, Issue 4 - Serial Number 4
Winter 2026
Pages 597-610

  • Receive Date 25 August 2025
  • Revise Date 17 January 2026
  • Accept Date 01 February 2026