Determining the site index of Teak (Tectona grandis L.) plantations in Tabasco, Mexico

Abstract

Forest stand productivity is defined as the quantitative estimation of a specific area’s potential to produce biomass over a determined period of time. The site index has been the predominant method used to evaluate forest stand productivity. Teak is one of the most accepted species within the international timber market due to the physical and aesthetic qualities of this wood. The aim of this study was to determine the site index of teak plantations. The study was conducted in teak plantations of Tabasco. Data were obtained from a network of 10 plantations consisting of 35 plots measured over four successive inventories (2003 to 2006). The data were fitted to five models, of which four were based on proposed finite difference equations and a non-integrated function. The most suitable of the five models was chosen, taking into account the goodness of fit, the residual analysis, and the validation with a data subsample from the plantation. The Sloboda model was finally selected, and the results obtained were compared with the model proposed by Upadhyay. This model proved to be a useful tool, not only in evaluating station quality but also in improving the planning and management of teak plantations in Tabasco.