Litterfall in different sucessional stages of Semi-deciduous Seasonal Forest in Western Paraná State

Abstract

The vegetation along the margins of an hydroeletric power plant reservoir were classified into five sucessional stages (early stage, three intermediary and one advanced stage). Trees and shrubs were identified in experimental units of the 10 x 20 m, and litter production was estimated through the use of 12 square (4,0 m2) litter collectors. Litterfall increased with succession (9,5 to 11,7 Mg.ha-1) although differences were not statistically signifficant, except for the earliest stage (2,2 Mg.ha-1). Leaves represented the higher fraction of litter produced with the percentage decreasing with the successional process. Maximum litterfall did not occurred at the same time of the year for every stage, but minimum litter production was observed in summer (december) corresponding to a lower rainfall period. Litterfall was positivelly correlated with wind speed and gusts of wind and negativelly correlated with humidity of the air.