Resumen

MALDONADO-ORTIZ, Margarito et al. Equations to estimate aerial biomass of candelilla (Euphorbia antisyphilitica Zucc.) in Chihuahua. Rev. mex. de cienc. forestales [online]. 2022, vol.13, n.72, pp.173-200.  Epub 22-Ago-2022. ISSN 2007-1132.  https://doi.org/10.29298/rmcf.v13i72.1231.

Candelilla (Euphorbia antisyphilitica Zucc.) is a shrub that grows in the arid zones of northern Mexico. This species is harvested for the purpose of extracting a wax that it produces in response to water stress. In order to authorize the harvesting of plants, it is necessary to estimate their biomass indirectly through predictive equations. The objective of this study was to generate allometric equations to estimate the biomass of candelilla based on morphometric variables. The work was carried out in the region of Aldama and Coyame del Sotol in northeastern Chihuahua, Mexico. A selective and destructive sampling of 198 individuals of candelilla was applied, which were obtained in ejidos with forest management programs in force. Four models and different combinations of biomass predictor variables were tested to fit the best equation. Variables were transformed to logarithmic scale. The Schumacher and Hall model was selected in the logarithmic form determined by the crown diameter and base diameter of the plant, since it exhibited the best statistical adjustments (R 2 adj =0.83), as well as by the root mean square of the error (RMSE=0.042), and the model parameters were significant (p<0.0001) in their correction of the regression assumptions. The equation thus obtained is reliable for estimating the biomass of candelilla in the northeastern state of Chihuahua, Mexico.

Palabras llave : Shrub biomass; Candelilla wax; allometric equations; models; biomass prediction; arid zones.

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