Comparative study of floristic diversity and carbon storage

The Kahuzi-Biega National Park (KBNP) is located in the east of the DRC, at the crossroads of the Guinean-Congolese and Afro-montane endemic centers. A strong pressure is exerted on the latter following repeated wars with the presence of Rwandan refugees dating back to 1994 and that of multiple armed groups. In 1997 the PNKB was placed on the list of World Heritage in Danger. The present study focused on the study of floristic diversity and the quantification of carbon stock in the high altitude forest formations of KBNP. Data were collected in 15 plots of 0.25 ha, represented by 5 formations (Carapa grandiflora, Syzygium guineense, Macaranga neomilbraedi, Alangium chinensis and Hagenia abyssinica) were studied and each formation included 3 plots. This included data on tree diameter 10cm and tree height. The results showed that the floristic diversity brought out three major formations; Hagenia abyssinica formation, Alangium chinensis formation and the Syzygium guineense-Carapa grandiflora-Macaranga neomilbraedi trio formation.

Autorentext

Ir. Georges HANGI:Engenheiro Agrónomo, Departamento de Águas e Florestas;Técnico em Sistema de Informação Geográfica;Gestão de Áreas Protegidas.