Exploring the Biometric Traits and Potential of Radiata Pine (Pinus radiata D. Don) as a Non-Native Species for Sustainable Forest Systems in Portugal

Abstract

This chapter aims to provide information on biometric traits of radiata pine (Pinus radiata D. Don) outside its natural range, considering as a case study the use of the species in Portugal. The specific objectives of this study are: i) characterising the species; ii) its management; iii) its provisioning potential. To achieve the latter, data on the biometric characteristics of radiata pine trees in Portugal was compiled and analyzed. Briefly, the approach followed employs an equation developed to predict the stem volume of individual trees, which is then coupled with the inherent wood basic density to provide oven-dried biomass estimates. The volume equation demonstrated a noticeable goodness-of-fit (R2 = 0.994 and standard error of the residuals = 0.026 m3) across the entire range of diameters within the dataset (ranging from 7.5 to 45 cm). Additionally, a proposed wood density value of 460 kg/m3 is put forth as a representative value for the species. The tree stem biomass (and sequestered carbon) is then generalized to the stand unit. The results show that the species compares favourably with maritime pine in terms of wood provisioning and usage, broadening the options of pine species to consider in Portugal for reforestation or afforestation programs.