Non-destructive tree volume estimation using mobile laser scanning: Impact of the tree shape on measurement error.

Mobile Laser Scanning of 176 trees in Wallonia, Belgium produced nearly unbiased taper-based merchantable volume estimates (RMSE 15.72%) despite tree-shape effects being limited.

• Why it matters: Tree volume estimation underpins forest management and carbon accounting, but allometric models transfer poorly across species and conditions; MLS could help if its error drivers are understood.
• What they did: Using a Zeb Horizon RT scanner, the study compared MLS-derived stem diameters (7,824 measurements), total height, and merchantable volume against destructive references across eight species, testing architectural descriptors for links to error.
• The result: Diameter and height errors were largely independent of structural attributes, while volume errors showed only moderate associations with tree size and crown density, implying tree architecture is not a primary MLS uncertainty source.