Investigation of Biomass and Carbon Storage of Tree Species in Zhengzhou, a Megacity in China

Urban trees play a dual role in enhancing landscape aesthetics and contributing to carbon sequestration. This study evaluated the biomass and carbon storage of eight common urban tree species in Zhengzhou, China, using organ-specific measurements and allometric growth models. The results revealed that biomass and carbon were primarily allocated to the trunk, followed by the roots, branches, and leaves; these results are consistent with previous findings. Acer buergerianum Miq. and Magnolia grandiflora L. demonstrated the highest per-tree carbon storage, while Styphnolobium japonicum (L.) Schott and Salix babylonica L. performed better in carbon storage per unit area. These patterns are linked to variations in species morphology, growth performance, and planting density. The study provides evidence-based recommendations for optimizing urban tree species selection to enhance carbon sink capacity. Future applications include integrating these results into urban planning strategies and long-term carbon monitoring systems, thereby contributing to low-carbon city development.