Stem Standard Timber form Factor of some Indian Conifers

The definition of stem standard timber form factor f_st is analysed. Presuming a tree to be conical, it is studied as to how much error in its estimation is introduced in calculating tree volume by Huber's formula and measarement by sections. f_st diameter curves for chir, kail, deodar and fir are drawn and comparative study is made. It is found that within a narrow range of diameter at breast height f_st height curve is linear. Taking advantage of this observation, the procedure of Hummel's "Volume-Basal Area Line" is applied in analysis of data for compiling f_st table for deodar with the difference that in the Present case, it is "f_st -Height Line" drawn for each diameter class. The values of f_st for predominant trees are compared with that of co-dominant and other trees of under-storey. It is revealed that suppressed trees on the whole show better form.