What is the function of a dendrometer in forestry?

A dendrometer is an essential tool in forestry primarily used to measure the diameter of a tree at breast height (DBH). This measurement is crucial for several reasons, particularly for growth assessments and volume calculations. By determining the diameter of a tree, foresters can estimate its biomass and overall health, as tree growth and diameter are closely related.

Accurate diameter measurements allow for better inventory assessments and management practices, helping foresters make informed decisions about yield predictions and sustainable harvesting techniques. In contrast, the other options relate to different aspects of forestry management. For instance, while measuring tree height is important, that function is typically performed by tools such as hypsometers, not a dendrometer. Soil assessments and species diversity evaluations involve different methodologies and tools, highlighting the specific role of a dendrometer in providing valuable diameter measurements for forest management practices.