Vegetation structure and carbon sequestration potential in the tropical karst forest of Gunung Sewu, Indonesia
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Abstract. Putri NRA, Setyawan AD, Kusumaningrum L. 2025. Vegetation structure and carbon sequestration potential in the tropical karst forest of Gunung Sewu, Indonesia. Intl J Trop Drylands 9: 50-63. Karst ecosystems are ecologically fragile yet provide critical services, including biodiversity support, water regulation, and carbon sequestration. However, restoration in these environments remains complex due to thin soils, seasonal drought, and limited rooting volume. This study assesses vegetation structure, aboveground biomass (AGB), and carbon sequestration potential in the reforested karst landscape of the Paliyan Wildlife Reserve, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. A systematic inventory was conducted across 100 plots stratified by tree and pole size classes, encompassing 1,180 woody individuals from 19 species. Biomass was estimated using both species-specific and general allometric equations. Results reveal a total AGB of 136.77 Mg ha-¹, corresponding to 64.28 Mg C ha-¹ or 235.88 Mg CO? ha-¹. Biomass was disproportionately stored in the tree stratum (78.23%) and overwhelmingly dominated by non-native species—particularly Tectona grandis, Delonix regia, and Senna siamea—which together accounted for over 70% of total carbon stock. Although restoration has successfully increased canopy cover and carbon storage, vertical stratification and native species richness remain low. Native taxa such as Dalbergia latifolia and Casuarina equisetifolia made minor but ecologically important contributions. These findings emphasize the ecological trade-offs of relying on fast-growing exotics, which, while effective for rapid biomass gain, may compromise long-term ecosystem resilience. The study advocates for a shift toward structurally diverse, native-enriched restoration strategies in tropical karst forests, aligned with biodiversity goals and climate mitigation targets under the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, REDD+, and national policy frameworks. This research provides a critical empirical foundation for balancing carbon-oriented and biodiversity-conscious reforestation in vulnerable karst systems.
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