Destructive sampling method for estimating the biomasses of African oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) plantations on tropical peatland

Abstract

We aimed to determine methods to estimate African oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) biomass on tropical peatlands. In this study we established a study plot in a 12-year-old African oil palm plantation in Sarawak, Malaysia. After measuring the stem diameters, heights, etc., of the palms in the plot, an average-sized palm was selected and its aboveground and belowground parts were destructively sampled to measure its biomass. Consequently, a destructive sampling method for estimating African oil palm plantation biomass on tropical peatlands was developed, based on the results of the field study. In addition, we discuss the ecological traits of African oil palms grown on tropical peatlands.