DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sjavs.2026.v13i01.004

Pages: 22-31

Soil organic carbon (SOC), a vital component of soil organic matter (SOM), is derived from vegetation residues and soil organisms and plays a significant role in climate change and sustainable development. This study focused on estimating SOC stock (0-60 cm depth) and assessing the potential of understorey plants as forage in smallholder oil palm plantations in Suka Maju Village, Muaro Jambi Regency. A survey across 916.5 hectares revealed that SOC stock ranged from 91.48 to 150.50 tons per hectare, exceeding 100 tons on land with plants older than 10 years. The highest SOC stock was found on 20-year-old plants on 8% sloped land. Among 19 understorey species identified, four showed promise as green fodder, with Asystasia gangetica being the most widespread, dominating areas with older plants.