Modeling Degraded Bamboo Shoots in Southeast China

Abstract

Degraded bamboo shoots (DBS) constitute an important variable in the carbon fixation of bamboo forests. DBS are useful for informed decision making in bamboo forests. Despite their importance, studies on DBS are limited. In this study, we aimed to develop models to describe DBS variations. By using DBS data from 64 plots of Yixing forest farm in Jiangsu Province, China, a mixed-effects model was constructed, including block-level random effects. We evaluated the potential impact of several variables on DBS. The number of bamboo shoots (NBS), mean height to crown base (MHCB), hydrolytic nitrogen (HN), and available potassium (AK) significantly contributed to the model. By introducing the block-level random effect in the logistic model, the fitting statistics were significantly improved. The model showed that there were increased DBS in bamboo stands with decreased MHCB and AK, whereas DBS decreased with decreasing NBS and HN. The application of K fertilizer reduced the number of DBS during the emergence stage. By adjusting these factors, the number of DBS in bamboo forests can be reduced, which provides a theoretical basis for increasing the biomass of bamboo forests. It can also provide an important basis for studying the carbon sink characteristics of bamboo forests and help to formulate more effective bamboo forest management plans.