Predicting basal area using Java program in Akinyele local government area, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria

Individual tree growth models are important decision-making tools in forestry. This study evaluated the predictive ability for basal area, of a Java program derived from the algorithm of gamma distribution function. The input value was diameter at breast height. In generating and testing the program, a stratified random sampling technique was used to select four different age classes of teak plantation, namely: 11, 13, 22 and 59 years-old, respectively. Complete enumeration of trees (n = 433) was done for all the plots selected. Diameter at breast height (DBH) was measured with the aid of diameter girth tape, which was also used for basal area computation. Data obtained were processed into tree and stand levels. Parameters α and β for Gamma Distribution function (GDF) were estimated from growth data. The java program was then written based on the algorithm of Gamma distribution function for α, β and n parameters. Values of diameter at breast height fitted into the Java program shows that it was able to predict the basal area. Therefore, the predictive ability of the developed Java Program for basal area of individual and full stand teak trees demonstrates that it can be used for prediction of yield in forest stands.