Compatible tree taper and volume system for commercial plantations of Eucalyptus urophylla in Tabasco, Mexico

Abstract

Accurate estimation of product distribution in commercial forest plantations is essential to quantify and value stand volume. In this study, a compatible taper-merchantable volume system in forest plantations of Eucalyptus urophylla in Huimanguillo, Tabasco, México was used. Data was gathered from 175 cloned trees measured in 2007, 93 cloned trees measured in 2014 and 459 seed-origin trees measured in 2007. Statistical parameters that describe taper and accumulated volume were simultaneously estimated with maximum likelihood. The generalized model of Fang & Bailey produced the best fit for all three sources and all models were statistically different, so each source describes a different taper behavior. The 2014 clones are more conic-shaped, but more slender than the other sources. This is presumablya result of clone selection and silviculture.