Quantification of potential lignocellulosic biomass in fruit trees grown in Mediterranean regions

Abstract

This research was based on three species: Citrus sinensis (orange), Olea europaea (olive) and Prunus amygdalus (almond). The biomass was determined for a complete tree without roots, but including stem, branches and canopy or crown. The obtained results demonstrate that the stem volume is slightly higher for almond trees than for olive trees. In comparison, the average stem volume of orange trees is lower. On the other hand, the total biomass volume including canopy branches is similar in all species. The new practical quantification model for these Mediterranean agricultural crops is based on total biomass calculations normally used in forestry stands. So, the obtained values were used to develop models for biomass of the stem, branches and canopy, relating them with the diameter and volume stem. The regression analysis shows a significant correlation with minimized estimation errors. This allows a practical use of this model in biomass calculation in standing trees, both for total tree aerial biomass and also for pruning material.