Analysis of growth and latex production in commercial forest plantations of rubber (Hevea brasiliensis Muell Arg.) in the state of Oaxaca, Mexico

Abstract

Forty-one plantations were selected in the Papaloapan region; these did not present evidence of damage by pests, diseases or mechanical actions; they have a spacing of 6 x 3 m and cover ages from 1 to 42 years. In each plantation, 1000 m2 sites were drawn and the trees included in them were consecutively enumerated. A total of 2255 trees were measured, from which the following information was measured: bark thickness (gc), clean stem height (altf), total height (altt), normal diameter (dpa), north-south and east-west crown projection and latex production in kg/tree/year for 1562 trees. In order to establish the degree of association between latex production and dasometric variables, the statistical package SAS (SAS Institute Inc., 1991) was used. According to the comparison of the 4 mathematical models to predict the commercial volume of the clone IAN-710 of Hevea brasiliensis Muell Arg. The logarithmic equation model and the Australian equation presented the best fits for the volume prediction. However, the logarithmic model was chosen due to the better distribution of residual values ​​and because it is easier to apply than the Australian equation. The chosen equation expressed in its exponential form is: V = 0.02882823 * D2.24237 H0.74475