Forests are fundamental components of the global carbon cycle, acting as natural sinks that regulate the climate. However, not all forests function in the same way. A recent meta-analysis led by Adrián Lázaro-Lobo, with the participation of Romina Fernández from the IER, analyzed quantitative data on carbon cycle-related variables extracted from 250 studies. The meta-analysis includes 170 tree species introduced in different parts of the world, spanning 55 countries across all continents except Antarctica.
The analysis revealed that non-native tree forests have a greater capacity for carbon storage in their aboveground biomass due to their rapid growth. However, native forests surpass non-native ones in soil carbon accumulation, which is crucial for the long-term stability of ecosystems (Figure 1). This balance between carbon compartments has significant implications for the durability and vulnerability of carbon in the face of disturbances. Additionally, differences were observed in forest development stages: while non-native trees showed higher carbon uptake rates in their early life stages, these advantages diminished in mature trees.
These findings underscore the need to balance forestry policies that promote both short-term carbon storage and long-term soil conservation. Romina Fernández emphasizes that “native forests play a key role in long-term carbon storage and climate regulation, particularly in ecosystems such as the Yungas.” This study reinforces the importance of conserving native forests as a strategy to combat climate change.
For more details on this research, we invite you to read the full article available at the following link: https://doi.org/10.1111/brv.13176Sections
