Average relative stem profile comparisons for three size classes of Caribbean pine

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Abstract
A method for determining and comparing average relative stem profiles is described. Under-bark diameters at several points along the stem and the total heights were measured on 572 sample trees of Caribbean pine (Pinuscaribaea Morelet var. hondurensis Barrett & Golfari). For each tree, the total volume and the diameters under bark at several consistent relative positions along the stem (viz. 0.10–0.50 in increments of 0.05) were interpolated. The trees were categorised into three size classes depending on volume. For each tree, a true form factor corresponding to each interpolated relative position was calculated. These form factors were regressed on volume for each size class to determine the most appropriate position along the stem for use in calculating the relative diameters. A polynomial model was fitted to each size class, using relative diameter as the dependent variable and powers of relative height as the independent variables. Differences between the three equations describing the mean relative profiles were statistically significant. Mean errors for the relative diameters are also presented to indicate the accuracy of the three equations.

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