From tree to plot: investigating stem CO2 efflux and its drivers along a logging gradient in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Summary Stem respiration constitutes a substantial proportion of autotrophic respiration in forested ecosystems, but its drivers across different spatial scales and land‐use gradients remain poorly understood. This study quantifies and examines the impact of logging disturbance on stem CO2 efflux (EA) in Malaysian Borneo. EA was quantified at tree‐ and stand‐level in nine 1‐ha plots over a logging gradient from heavily logged to old‐growth using the static chamber method. Tree‐level results showed higher EA per unit stem area in logged vs old‐growth plots (37.0 ± 1.1 vs 26.92 ± 1.14 g C m−2 month−1). However, at stand‐level, there was no difference in EA between logged and old‐growth plots (6.7 ± 1.1 vs 6.0 ± 0.7 Mg C ha−1 yr−1) due to greater stem surface area in old‐growth plots. Allocation to growth respiration and carbon use efficiency was significantly higher in logged plots. Variation in EA at both tree‐ and stand‐level was driven by tree size, growth and differences in investment strategies between the forest types. These results reflect different resource allocation strategies and priorities, with a priority for growth in response to increased light availability in logged plots, while old‐growth plots prioritise maintenance and cell structure.
Source: New Phytologist
DOI: 10.1111/nph.20043
Institutions: University of Leicester, University of New England, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, University of Oxford, National University of Saint Anthony the Abbot in Cuzco, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú, University of Aberdeen, Universiti of Malaysia Sabah, Imperial College London, Sabah Forestry Department, Newcastle University, UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology
Language: English
Subfield: Global and Planetary Change
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
SDGs: Life on land, Climate action
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $5,790
Awards: G1062242623, G1281277871, G2336566224, G2475148060, Biodiversity and Ecosystem Processes in Human-Modified Tropical Forests, BIODIVERSITY AND LAND-USE IMPACTS ON TROPICAL ECOSYSTEM FUNCTION (BALI), G3957836996, G5077727603, The Central England NERC Training Alliance 2 (CENTA2), G7961965073, DECOMPOSITION OF DEADWOOD DEBRIS LEFT OVER FROM TROPICAL RAINFOREST LOGGING OPERATIONS, G8342373246, G8444913266
OpenAlex ID: W4401650061