The vernacular names usually used in commercial inventories may group together distinct species. To investigate this problem, the botanical identification of trees called Tauari were examined were examined in commercial inventories of 100 ha located in the central and eastern lumber regions of the State of Pará. Field characters of each species were noted. Information about the relative distribution of this species, the technological characteristics of the timber of each species and Brazil's federal laws relating to forest management is discussed. In the central region, 112 individuals were recorded as Couratari guianensis and six individuals as Couratari sp. After revision, using botanical material collected from each tree and identified using herbarium material, the following species listed as Couratari guianensis were found: Couratari guianensis, C. oblongifolia and C. stellata (the most abundant) and specimens listed as Couratari sp. included both Cariniana micrantha and C. decandra. In the eastern region, 33 individuals were recorded by the company as Couratari guianensis, but the scientific identification showed the existence of two species: C. guianensis (the most abundant) and C. oblongifolia. C. tauari also was seen growing nearby. This study shows that correct determination of the can be obtained from field characters (leaves, branches and trunks). Botanical identification is demonstrated as fundamental for the knowledge of the regional diversity and essential for successful management plans.
Forest inventory; dendrology; diversity of plants; timber
