A comparison of fixed- and mixed-effects modeling in tree growth and yield prediction of an indigenous neotropical species (Centrolobium tomentosum) in a plantation system

► The first tree-level growth and yield models for Centrolobium tomentosum are developed. ► It is a tropical tree species suitable for plantation forestry. ► Its mean annual yield is 5.6-16.6 m3/ha with 21-11-year rotation lengths. ► Fixed-effects models are better in prediction than non-calibrated mixed models. ► Future research should report both fixed- and mixed-effects versions of growth models.