Natural regeneration of seasonal semideciduous forest in different successional stages (Zona da Mata, MG, Brazil)

Abstract

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the floristic structure and composition of the natural regeneration of stretches from Seasonal Semideciduous Forest in different successional stages. Ten plots, 5 x 10 meters in size, were systematically delimited for phytosociological structure in patches of forest which were in intermediate regeneration stage (FEM), advanced regeneration stage (FEA) and abandoned pasture (PAS).We sampled the individuals with ≥ 50 cm in height and diameter at ground height ≤ 5 cm. We performed Detrended Correspondence Analysis and analysis of indicative species of each forest section. In the natural regeneration structure of FEM and pasture it was featured only one species (Psychotria sessilis and Vernonia polyanthes, respectively) in the Importance Value (IV), mainly due to high density. In relation to the FEA there was no strong dominance by one species. The three sections showed distinct species abundance and composition, which suggests that the forest matrix comprises a successional mosaic. Furthermore, each stretch still maintains indicative characteristic species, according to the successional stage they are in. Because of this, management and enrichment actions could be performed to accelerate the succession process.

Keywords: Floristic composition; conservation; structure; secondary succession.