Assessing Carbon Sequestration Capacity of Eucalyptus in Restored Sub-Mediterranean Lands

Abstract

Eucalyptus plantations are an important component of Morocco's forest landscapes. They provide numerous socioeconomic benefits and alleviate pressure on natural forests. However, their contribution to carbon sequestration remains poorly documented. This chapter assessed the carbon sequestration capacity of five Eucalyptus clones of different ages in the Gharb region in Morocco. Destructive sampling of 20 trees per clone–age combination was conducted to quantify carbon stocks in tree biomass, litter, and soil through laboratory analyses, and to develop clone-specific allometric models for aboveground carbon estimation. Mean biomass carbon fractions ranged from 53.60 ± 1.27% to 54.96 ± 1.80%, exceeding commonly applied default values. Aboveground carbon stocks varied from 3.86 to 32.87 t C ha−1, while soil represented the largest carbon pool (37.67–74.70 t C ha−1). These findings highlight strong clonal variability and emphasize the need for informed clonal selection and management to enhance climate mitigation strategies through carbon sequestration.