Yimer et al. (2026): Role of woody plants in carbon sequestration: evidence from Sulula Mofa Forest, Northern Ethiopia
Hussen Yimer, Gonfa Kewessa and Siraj Mammo, IN: Scientific Reports, https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-49271-y
Forests are vital for maintaining the global carbon balance and mitigating climate change by sequestering CO₂ and storing organic carbon, contributing to sustainable development. However, Ethiopia lacks national-level carbon inventories, monitoring systems, and databanks to enhance carbon sequestration. This study assessed the carbon stock potential along altitudinal, slope, and aspect gradients in the Sulula Mofa Dry Afro-Montane Forest. Using stratified random sampling, 42 plots (400 m² each) were established. A total of 210 subplots (1 m × 1 m; 1 m²) were established within the main plots for soil and litter sampling. Equal amounts of soil and litter materials were collected from the subplots and separately homogenized to form composite samples of approximately 100 g each. Tree biomass was estimated using nondestructive allometric models, while organic carbon in litter and soil was analyzed in the laboratory.