Effects of tree species diversity and stand structure on carbon stocks of homestead forests in Maheshkhali Island, Southern Bangladesh

Abstract Background The homestead forests of Bangladesh occupy 0.27 million hectares (10% the total forested area) and have potential to store carbon (C) conserve biodiversity. Small scale forestry practices, however, are lacking reliable estimation C stocks tree species diversity. This may hinder successful implementation REDD + similar mechanisms as they concentrate on large-scale forests. study aimed estimate above- below-ground in Maheshkhali Island how diversity stand structural variation affect these stocks. We randomly surveyed a 239 hillside, beachside, inland 2019. Results Tree biomass were 48–67% greater hillside than beachside due significantly density, basal area, diameter. In we found 52 species, but most abundant forests, Mangifera indica , Samanea saman Artocarpus heterophyllus stored biomass. Greater richness index indicated An increase by one unit was stock 22 30 Mg ha ?1 respectively. soil also affected diversity, their interaction with properties. Total greatest (51 ) having density richness. surface litterfall, average share litterfall from only 0.1%. Conclusions Homestead forest ecosystems could 96 total, which can contribute climate change mitigation generating credits for small-scale owners. Above- correlate biodiversity conservation countries alike.