Wood density, or the dry weight per unit volume of wood, is an important parameter that

  • can be used in allometric equations that estimate tree biomass and carbon stocks from stem diameter values (e.g. W = 0.11 r D2+c , Ketterings et al. 2001.
    Reducing uncertainty in the use of allometric biomass equations for
    predicting above-ground tree biomass in mixed secondary forests, Forest
    Ecology and Management 146, 199-209)
  • indicate the use value (higher density wood tends to burn slower and is
    thus more useful as firewood or as source of charcoal, it also
    correlates with strength, although there are better parameters for
    strength per se).

Wood density varies with tree species, growth conditions and part of
the tree measured. The main stem generally has a higher wood density
than the branches, while fast growth is generally related to relatively
low wood density. For most species the literature thus gives a range
with low, medium and high values. In this database we have collected
quantitative information from a number of publicly available sources.
As you will note, there is no standardization of the moisture content
of the (‘air dry') wood in the densities reported, and some conversions
may be needed.

Disclaimer: although we have made efforts
to render the information accurately, we can not take responsibility
for any consequence of errors in the data quoted.

For questions and comments please contact s.rahayu@cgiar.org

Click here to download the file Ketterings et al. 2001 ( pdf file)