Phytosociological analysis on tree diversity in Remuna block, Balasore, Odisha, focusing on its biomass, major macronutrients, and carbon stocks

Abstract Global climate changes, habitat loss, and reduction of biodiversity are significant threats demanding an investigation into the relationship between tree diversity and human well-being to maintain biodiversity and carbon stock. Tree species diversity was studied to comprehend concurrent variation in the phyto-sociological analysis, biomass, carbon stock changes, and five major macronutrient contents in the tropical moist deciduous area of Remuna block, Balasore, Odisha, India. A total of 30 sample plots (20 x 20 metres) were laid that included 422 tree individuals of 39 species belonging to 33 genera and 17 families. The Fabaceae family was the most dominant, with 11 species. The dominant tree species was Shorea robusta with an important value of index (IVI) of 61.48. Some of the dominant species that contributed to above-ground biomass were Shorea robusta, Ficus benghalensis, and Ficus religiosa. Total biomass and carbon stocks were maximum in Shorea robusta and was found to be 6508.32 ton and 3254.16 ton, respectively, and minimum in the species Syzygium cumini with 8.32 ton and 4.16 ton respectively. By using biomass equations and through conversion of nutrient concentrations to nutrient contents, calcium was found to be most abundant, followed by nitrogen, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus in Shorea robusta. The study will be helpful in understanding changes in the plant community and thereby developing location-specific strategies for conservation of valuable rare plants in the Remuna Block as well as sustainable utilisation of biodiversity in the future.