Carbon cycle variation in Theobroma cacao agroforestry systems
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Abstract
Carbon cycle assessment in Theobroma cacao agroforestry systems is crucial for promoting climate change mitigation strategies and agricultural sustainability. This study aimed to analyze how tree composition influences carbon sequestration and removal in a cacao agroforestry system in Baracoa, Cuba. A 500 m² plot was established, where the diameters and heights of seven tree species (including Swietenia macrophylla, Cordia gerascanthus, and Cedrela odorata) were measured, and their biomass and stored carbon were calculated using the SUMFOR v-4.01 system. The results showed that in 2018 the system retained 387.99 tC/ha, with the highest contributions from Honduran mahogany (64.52 tC/ha) and baria (58.93 tC/ha). The average annual removal was 35.80 tC/ha/year (equivalent to 131.27 t CO₂), with oak (Tabebuia angustata) standing out with 11.67 tC/ha/year. It was concluded that tree diversity increases carbon storage and removal capacity, supporting their inclusion in payment for environmental services schemes. These agroforestry systems represent efficient sinks for mitigating emissions and strengthening climate resilience.
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