Eucalyptus and Primary Forest Biomass and Nutrient Data from Brazil

Five files contain measurements of nutrient concentrations, biomass, and decomposition rates for roots, litterfall, leaves, and twigs. Samples were collected from 1999 to 2001 at a eucalyptus plantation and adjacent primary forest in Monte Dourado, Para, Brazil, across rainy and dry seasons and three soil depths. The dataset was produced by NASA but carries a formal quality statement noting significant documentation gaps.

Use Cases

• Comparing nutrient concentrations (N, P, K, Ca, Mg) in plant tissues between a managed eucalyptus plantation and a primary forest.
• Analyzing fine root biomass and litterfall biomass across different soil depths (0-15 cm, 35-50 cm, 85-100 cm) and seasons.
• Studying leaf and twig decomposition rates in contrasting forest types and soil conditions.
• Investigating seasonal variation in ecological processes by using data tagged for rainy and dry seasons.

Strengths

• Data includes a direct comparison between two distinct land covers: a eucalyptus plantation and a primary forest.
• Sampling covers multiple dimensions: three soil depths, two seasons, and multiple plant components (roots, leaves, twigs, litterfall).
• Cross-platform presence on Data.gov and NASA EarthData indicates recognized scientific importance.

Limitations

• A formal DATA QUALITY STATEMENT warns of missing/incomplete data and metadata that diminishes usability.
• Critical documentation is absent, including collection year per sample, analytical methods, and definitions for Location, Block, and soil type fields.
• Conflicting freshness: NASA EarthData lists an end date of 2001-12-31, while Data.gov lists a last updated date of 2026-03-13, suggesting metadata updates without data revision.

Provenance

Source

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

Collection Method

Field sampling of plant and soil materials from designated study sites, with subsequent laboratory analysis for nutrients, biomass, and decomposition.

Time Range

1999 to 2001

Freshness

2026-03-13 01:11:50.261586

Geography

Property of Jari Celulose, Monte Dourado, Para, Brazil