Natural regeneration structure of tree species in an Atlantic Forest fragment, Pernambuco, Brazil

Abstract

The study was developed in a Atlantic Forest fragment called “Mata da Conceição”, which presents evident characteristics of the atrophic pressure on its resources, several small glades and trails throughout its area, situated in Catende, Pernambuco, Brazil, aiming at evaluating the total natural  regeneration, diversity and structure of the tree species in the fragment. For the natural regeneration estimate of the tree species, 13 samples of 25 m² were systematically plotted (5 x 5 m). The study was developed with individuals that presented CBH ? 15 cm and height ? 1.0 m. The heights were divided into three categories: 1 – individuals with 1.0 ? h ?2.0 m; 2 – 2.0 < h ? 3.0 m; and 3 - individuals with h > 3 m. The study of the sufficient sample showed that 13 plots (325 m²) were satisfactory in representing the floristic composition of the area. A total of 134 live individuals, belonging to 21 botanical families and 43 tree species, were sampled. The highest value for total natural regeneration was observed in the species Eschweilera ovata (Camb.)  Miers., with 11.57%, showing a good regeneration capacity in the fragment, helping in the forest structure and physiognomy management.