Impact of Forest Fire on Biomass and Carbon Storage Pattern of Tropical Deciduous Forests in Bhoramdeo Wildlife Sanctuary, Chhattisgarh

M. K. Jhariya, Surendra S. Bargali, S. L. Swamy, B. Kittur, Kiran Bargali, Geeta V. Pawar

Abstract


In developing countries, protected forests experience extensive anthropogenic disturbance due to fire, grazing, extraction of fuel wood and collection of non-wood forest products which contribute to the livelihood of forest dwelling populations. The present study includes the biomass and carbon storage pattern of Tropical Deciduous forests in fires affected areas of Bhoramdeo Wildlife Sanctuary. Delineation and identification of fire prone areas were done on the basis of historical ground fire data in conjunction with satellite remote sensing data provided by NRSA, based on the frequency of forest fire damage. The fire affected areas were divided into four fire zones viz., high (HFZ), medium (MFZ), low (LFZ) and non fire zones (NFZ).  Stratified random sampling was used by laying five quadrats (20m x 20m) for measuring trees and saplings. Within 20m x 20m quadrats, another 5m x 5m quadrats was laid for seedlings and shrubs, respectively. Total tree biomass recorded was maximum in LFZ and minimum in MFZ.  The total sapling biomass was minimum in HFZ and maximum in NFZ.  In case of seedling layer the maximum total biomass was accumulated in low fire zone whereas in shrub layer it was highest in HFZ. Carbon storage has same pattern as that biomass accumulation at all sites. It is evident that forest fires are driving factor in shaping forest vegetation, biomass accumulation and carbon storage. Efforts are needed to control on such type of fire which could allow the natural recovery processes to enhance biological diversity and sustainable development.

Keywords


Biomass; Carbon Storage; Vegetation; Tropical Deciduous Forest; Forest Fire

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