ABSTRACT
The objectives of this study were to test the efficiency of models of double entrance, simple entrance, double entrance associated to hypsometric relationship, and the method of the two diameters, and also to define the optimum sampling point along the tree for obtaining the wood basic density from just one sample. The study was carried out in the João Pinheiro region, MG, belonging to “Mannesman Florestal” LTDA. Data from 127 cubed trees were used with ages ranging from 28 to 76 months. Cross sections cuttings at every meter of the stem were taken for basic density determination. The estimates of the total dry weigth outside and inside bark were obtained from the proposed methods. The comparison of estimated with observed values was made by randon block design. It was observed that any of tested methods resulted in dry weight estimates similar to the observed values. Meanwhile, the precision of the estimates from the simple entrance equation were inferior to those one obtained through the other tested methods. The optimum sampling point to obtain the basic density was at 1 m from the ground. It was also verified that a greatter precision can be obtained if the sample for basic density is taken obtained at the heights of 1, 3 and 6 meters from the ground.
Key words:
Dry weight; basic density; methods of estimation