Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to evaluate the edge effect using the macrofauna community of the soil as indicator in three fragments of Semi-deciduous Seasonal Forest in the city of Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, Brazil. Three sampling ranges denominated edge, transition and interior were delimited in each fragment. The macrofauna community was sampled at two seasons of the year (dry and wet). Monoliths were collected from soil at 10 cm depth in each range. The density and richness of the fauna, as well as the Shannon diversity index and the Pielou equitability index, were calculated. It was observed that the edge effect is expressed from the presence/absence of orders of individuals in the different fragment ranges, with no interference in the density, average wealth or number of individuals in each group. The edaphic community presents higher density and average richness in the dry period within the transition and interior range of the fragments.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT The objective of this work was to determine the efficiency of poultry litter ratios added to the commercial substrate and to peat in the growth and quality of Enterolobium contortisiliquum seedlings. The design was completely randomized, with 10 replications, in a 2 × 5 factorial arrangement with two substrates (peat and commercial substrate) and five poultry litter ratios, added (v:v) to both substrates (0, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%). The height, stem diameter, dry matter of shoot and roots, root specific surface area, Dickson quality index and NPK accumulated in dry matter of shoot and roots were evaluated. Poultry litter can be added up to a 35% ratio to the commercial substrate or to peat for the production of Enterolobium contortisiliquum seedlings; proportions above this, for both substrates, compromise the production. The treatments with peat provided lower growth and quality of Enterolobium contortisiliquum seedlings, compared to the commercial substrate.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Some Amazonian woods are considered highly resistant to the attack of microorganisms; however, which ones present the highest resistance is unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the natural resistance of seven woods to xylophagous termite Nasutitermes octopilis through a no-choice feeding assay. The following wood species were assessed: Dinizia excelsa, Manilkara huberi, Dipteryx odorata , Bagassa guianensis, Astronium lecointei, Caryocar villosum, and Hymenolobium petraeum (Ducke). To this end, five timber samples from the middle heart at breast height of each plant with dimensions of 2.54 × 2.54 × 0.64 cm (longitudinal × radial × tangential) were collected from sawmills in the municipality of Altamira, Pará state, Brazil, submitted to termite action under laboratory conditions, and had their mass loss and wear assessed, with five replicates. A. lecointei showed the lowest resistance, whereas C. villosum and D. odorata presented the highest resistance.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT The state of Pará ranks second in Brazilian mineral production, where bauxite accounts for 84% of total mineral extraction, with negative impacts on the environment as a result. The determination of objectives and targets using environmental indicators as a tool to evaluate forest restoration processes is essential in the recovery of these exploited areas. This study aimed at evaluating the efficiency of forest restoration techniques by means of 13 qualitative and quantitative indicators for monitoring post-bauxite mining operations. Permanent plots were implanted in revegetated areas with the use of two techniques: planting of seedlings and stewarding of natural regeneration. It is concluded that the techniques are efficient for the recovery of forested area. However, natural regeneration showed greater efficiency for restoration for Density, Erosion and Exotic Species indicators. Still, natural regeneration should not be the sole option in the processes of ecosystem restoration, since planting proved to be more efficient for some indicators.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT The aim of this paper was to compare methods and sampling procedures applied to eucalyptus grown under different spatial arrangements in an integrated crop-livestock-forest system (ICLF). The study was carried out in Sinop county, Mato Grosso state, Brazil. Arrangements combining fixed and variable area methods to simple random and systematic sampling were tested. Precision, accuracy, efficiency, and diameter-distribution measurements were used for selection of the best sampling arrangement. The sampling intensity, sample unit optimal size and the relative efficiency have been changed depending on the spatial arrangement for 10% sampling error and 95% probability level. The fixed area method based on systematic sampling, as well as smaller sample units with eight to nine plants (48 m2 to 54 m2) were the most accurate; however, larger plots (192 m2 to 216 m2) were more efficient. All sample units size provided good estimates on the number of trees by diameter classes.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Leucochloron incuriale can be used in projects to restore degraded areas and for logging purpose. Soil has been used in nurseries to produce seedlings; however, most soil types in Brazil have low nutrient availability and high acidity level. The aim of the current study is to assess the effect of liming and phosphate fertilization on the growth and quality of Leucochloron incuriale seedlings. Treatments were arranged in factorial design with five base saturation levels – 3.5 (original), 25, 40, 55 and 70% – and six P levels – 0, 120, 240, 360, 480 and 600 mg dm–3 – in completely randomized blocks with four repetitions. The morphological features and their relations were assessed 82 days after planting. Phosphorus levels had significant effect on most of the assessed traits. The recommended P dose was 475 mg dm–3.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT An ethnobotanical survey was carried out in the Quilombola Community of Serra do Evaristo in the municipality of Baturité, Ceará state, Brazil. We interviewed 41 residents who provided information on the plants used, the types of use, the preparation methods, the purchase location of the plants and their knowledge source. One hundred and fourteen species belonging to 53 botanical families were recorded. Six types of use were reported, with most species being used for medicinal purposes (43% of the species), followed by food (25%), decoration (23%), construction (5%), domestic fuel (3%) and ritualistic purposes (3%). The most cited species were Musa paradisiaca L. (banana), Zea mays L. (corn), Phaseolus vulgaris L. (bean), Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck (orange), Melissa officinalis L. (common balm), Aloe vera (L.) Burm.f. (aloe vera), Cymbopogon citratus Stapf. (lemon grass), Mentha sp.(mint) and Psidium guajava L. (guava). The knowledge and use of the plants is part of a cultural heritage passed down through families, and has been helping the survival and maintenance of the Quilombola identity in the studied community.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the behavior of samples of juvenile and mature Eucalyptus cloeziana wood when subjected to the drying process, and the influence of the anatomy on that behavior. In order to do this, saturated specimens from this woods measuring 10 × 5 × 1 cm were subjected to drastic drying at 100 °C, where the drying rates and the end check scores in different steps of the process were obtained. The fibers and vessels morphology, initial moisture and basic density were analyzed to help understanding the data obtained in the drying test. The juvenile wood presented 26% higher drying rate and 21% smaller drying time, also 53% higher end check score. Smaller fibers length and fibers wall thickness, higher vessels frequency and smaller vessels diameter were associated with higher total drying rate and water adsorption, as well as with the higher end check score.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Alteration of a natural ecosystem can physically, chemically and biologically affect a determined area. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the relation between the hydrology, soils and vegetation existing in an area changed by the implantation of a Hydroeletric Power Plant (HPP) in the municipality of Roque Gonzales, Rio Grande do Sul state. The study area was composed of three samples located downstream of the dam. This analysis was performed by the points method to verify the existence of similarity patterns between the vegetation, inundation levels and edaphic soil characteristics of each sample. As a result, greater floristic similarity was observed between the species as a relation of the spatial location with inundation levels. Thus, we can conclude that the vegetal establishment in the study area is under the direct influence of waterflow variation levels from the HPP, which contributes to defining species adaptability to these specific conditions, among others.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Pelletization is a technique used to compact biomass, generating a granulated material called pellets, with high energy density. The objectives of this work were to produce pellets made from Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) residuals and to evaluate its quality. Firstly, the residuals were characterized, followed by the production of the pellets. An experimental framework was adopted, entirely randomized with three treatments: T1 – 100% Sorghum, T2 – Sorghum + addition of wheat starch, and T3 – Sorghum with the addition of steam. There was also a comparison of the properties of the pellets with values determined by the European standard. It was concluded that Sorghum biomass (Sorghum bicolor) residuals are viable for pellet production; products obtained were homogenous and easy to handle; the treatment T1 presented the best results for pellet production; all treatments produced pellets within the specifications of the EN 14961-6 (DIN, 2012) standard for non-wood pellets.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Forest utilization usually has an impact on changes in forest structure and species composition. The species of trees selected and ecosystem management system that refer to biodiversity characteristics will be explained by better knowledge of Functional Species Group (FSG). The purpose of this study was to determine the composition of vegetation recovery based on FSG in production forest managed with silvicultural system known as Selective Cutting and Line Planting System (SCLP) and undisturbed forest known as Germplasm Preservation Areas (GPCA) in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia. The results showed that the proportion of climax group in the entire observation plots was greater than pioneer species group, i.e. climax 100 species and pioneer 59 species. Stand structure both climax and pioneer species group has inverse J shape curve. It means that the species composition of logged-over forest is still in balance condition, characterized with high index of diversity (H' > 3).

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT The objectives of this study were to evaluate substrates produced from the peach-palm agroindustry waste and sewage sludge as a source of nutrients for the production of Brazilian Peppertree seedlings (Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi), and to compare the performance of these substrates under various levels of slow release fertilizer for this species. Four levels of fertilizer were tested (0, 2.0, 4.0 and 6.0 g dm–3) in three types of substrates: BIOCPI = Sewage sludge + Peach-palm bark (1:1 v:v); BIOCPII = Sewage sludge + Peach-palm bark (1:2 v:v) and BIOCPIII = Sewage sludge + Peach-palm bark (1:3 v:v). Plant height, stem diameter, dry matter (shoot and root), height/diameter ratio, Dickson quality index and N, P, K, Ca, Mg, and S contents in the shoot were measured. The use of the substrates BIOCPII and BIOCPIII proved to be viable for the production of Brazilian Peppertree seedlings. Doses above 4.0 gdm–3 of granular fertilizer are recommended for better results.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT The objective of this work was to evaluate the technical feasibility of budding in A. angustifolia in two rootstocks establishment, performed in two seasons of the year. In October and April, patch and flute budding techniques were carried on rootstocks kept indoor (greenhouse) and established outdoor (field), with grafts of adult female plants. The percentage of survival, percentage of shoots and number of shoots up to 300 days after budding (DAB) were evaluated. The patch budding performed in October showed the greatest grafts survival rates (82%) and percentage of shoots in the grafts (64%) at 180 DAB. The flute budding showed highest number of shoots (2.7 at 120 DAB and 3.5 at 180 DAB) when compared to patch budding. The use of the patch budding is recommended in spring, not requiring a controlled environment for the rootstocks. After 180 DAB there were no losses of grafted plants.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT The objective of this work was to evaluate the performance accuracy of digital elevation models in delimiting a water basin located in the relief transition region between the São Francisco Plateau, São Franciscana Depression and the Espinhaço mountain range. Four digital elevation models with data from the Shuttle Radar Topographic Mission (SRTM) and map topography were generated using the Topo To Raster interpolator with and without support from hydrography maps (IBGE), and another with the original SRTM data. For each digital elevation model, its accuracy was evaluated for representing: the drainage, the hydrography and basin mouth in comparison to the references obtained from IBGE maps. The models generated with SRTM and topographic data supported by hydrography maps showed good performance, with small delimitation errors in the water basin. Those generated without support from hydrography maps showed gross errors due to non-representation of the hydrography in the São Franciscana Depression region.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT The aim of this work was to evaluate the roots influence on the shear strength of a clay soil and a sandy soil. Soil samples with and without roots were collected from experimental plantations of Atlantic Forest native species. The soil samples were then physically characterized and their shear strength tested in a laboratory. The results indicated that the soils’ shear strength and compressive strength were increased by the roots. In the sandy soil, roots influenced the shear strength by increasing the cohesion value (234%), while in the clay soil they influenced the shear strength mainly by increasing the cohesion value (32%) and the internal friction angle (14.4%). This information can ultimately be part of the technical justifications that ratify the use of plants in erosion control and slope stabilization works.

Resumo em Português:

RESUMO O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar a viabilidade de uso da resina lignina-fenol-formaldeído na produção de painel aglomerado estrutural de Mimosa scabrella Benth (bracatinga). Os painéis foram produzidos com massa específica nominal de 750 kg.m-3 e 950 kg.m-3, 10 e 12% de resina fenol-formaldeído e lignina-fenol-formaldeído, e 10 e 12 minutos de prensagem. A qualidade dos painéis experimentais foi avaliada por meio de seguintes ensaios físico-mecânicos: massa específica, razão de compactação, absorção de água e inchamento em espessura 2 e 24 horas, tração perpendicular, flexão estática e arrancamento de parafuso. Foram constatadas interações positivas da massa específica, teor de resina e tempo de prensagem nas propriedades dos painéis produzidos. A avaliação dos resultados das propriedades com base nos requisitos da norma EN 312:2003 (tipo P5), indicaram a viabilidade de uso da resina lignina-fenol-formaldeído na produção de painel aglomerado de Mimosa scabrellla para aplicações estruturais.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT The objective of this work was to evaluate the feasibility of using lignin-phenol-formaldehyde resin in the production of Mimosa scabrella Benth (bracatinga) structural particleboard. The boards were produced with nominal specific mass of 0.75 and 0.95 g/cm3, 10% and 12% of phenol-formaldehyde and lignin-phenol-formaldehyde resins, with 10 and 12 min of pressing time. The boards quality was evaluated by means of the following physical-mechanical tests: specific mass, compression ratio, water absorption and thickness swelling after 2 and 24 hours soaking, perpendicular traction, static bending and screw pulling. Positive interactions of specific mass, resin content and pressing time were observed in the properties of the boards produced. The evaluation of the properties results based on the requirements of EN 312 (type P5) standard indicated the feasibility of using lignin-phenol-formaldehyde resin in the production of particleboard of Mimosa scabrellla for structural applications.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT This study analyzed the regional concentration of the gross production value (GPV) of firewood in Paraíba from 1994 to 2014. It measured the concentration by means of the Concentration Ratio [CR(k)] of the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI), Theil’s Entropy (E), the Hall-Tindelman Index (HTI), and the Gini Index (G). From the analyses performed, it was concluded that there was growth in the GPV of firewood in Paraíba from R$ 2.59 million to R$ 10.39 million (in current terms). The CR(4) and CR(8) of the municipalities indicated low concentration; the CR(4) in the microregions presented a moderately low concentration, and the CR(8) had moderately high concentration. The HHI of the municipalities and microregions has a competitive market, and the HHI of the mesoregions has moderate concentration; E corroborated the evidence of HHI; HTI presented low regional concentration; G showed medium to strong inequality for mesoregions, weak to medium in microregions and zero to weak in municipalities.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract This study intended to assess the effect of weather on the air-drying process of messassa wood (Brachystegia spiciformis Benth) in two areas of Mozambique (Machipanda and Beira city). First, the logs were sawn into 27 mm thick boards. Every five days the moisture content of the wood was determined by the control samples. For each region, the drying rate and wood quality post sawing and drying were estimated. The drying time differed between the regions under investigation, with Machipanda revealing the higher value. Messassa wood, which revealed a low drying rate (0.33% U/day), was categorized as slow drying wood. Both regions showed average final moisture content of 15.3% in the boards, with only slight variations in moisture inside the stacks. After outdoor drying, only a few defects were noted and as it was free from tensions, hence it was classified as good quality wood.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT The objective of this work was to evaluate the initial growth of assai seedlings (Euterpe oleraceae) in response to shading and slow release fertilizer. The experiment was conducted at Embrapa Acre in a randomized block design using a 4 × 5 factorial scheme with three replicates and 10 plants per plot. The treatments consisted of four shade environments (20%, 30%, 50% and 75%) and five levels of slow release fertilizer (0.0, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5 and 10.0 kg m–3). The following characteristics were evaluated: plant height, number of leaves, stem diameter, leaf dry mass, stem dry mass, root dry mass, total dry mass, and seedlings quality index. The growth of assai seedlings was influenced by shade environment conditions and slow release fertilizer. Shade environment with 30% or 50% and a dose of 8 kg m–3 resulted in better quality seedlings.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Charcoal produced from reforested wood can be distinguished from the charcoal derived from the wood of native species. This identification is very important for the trade, control and monitoring of charcoal production in Brazil. This study investigated the potential of texture analysis for classifying the charcoal based on origin (eucalyptus or native) and species. A total of 17 wood species were studied, five of which belonged to genus Eucalyptus and 12 were native to the Zona da Mata Mineira. Texture features based on the gray level co-occurrence matrix were extracted from digital images. The linear discriminant analysis was used to classify the images with these features. Employing 10 features, 96.2% accuracy was achieved for the classification by origin and 90.4% for the categorization by species. Texture analysis was shown to be a favorable and effective method that could facilitate the establishment of semiautomated techniques to classify the charcoal based on origin or species.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to analyze the dynamics of the community and shrub-woody individuals in a dry forest in the Brazilian semiarid region after 29 years of vegetation suppression. Individuals with a circumference at 1.30 m above the ground (CBH) ≥ 6 cm were counted and their heights and CBH were measured in 40 permanent plots on three monitoring occasions (2011, 2013 and 2015). In the period between 2011 and 2015 the area presented a below average precipitation for the last 30 years. Phytosociological parameters and diversity were estimated. The density of individuals decreased from 2011 to 2015 (p < 0.01) and the basal area was similar. During the monitoring period, Poincianella bracteosa stood out in density, frequency and dominance. Phytosociological changes were more evident for an interval of four years. After 29 years of vegetation suppression, the community diversity is within the values for preserved semiarid (caatinga) vegetation. A long period of drought was the main disturbance factor affecting vegetation dynamics.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Swamps have high biological diversity and are the largest producers of biomass. However, such ecosystems are threatened by human activities. This study analyzes the plant community structure of two swamp sites, with and without grazing. A total of 200 sample units with 0.25 m2 were distributed every 13 m to determine diversity, the Importance Value Index (IVI), and coverage. Fifty species and 18 families were recorded. Luziola peruviana Juss. ex. JF Gmel had the highest IVI, accounting for 62.57% of the relative coverage in cattle-influenced sites. In the portions without cattle, Commelina diffusa Burm.f. had the highest IVI (24.33). The Shannon and Pielou indexes were 2.18 nats.ind.–1 and 0.56, respectively, decreasing to 1.62 nats.ind.–1 and 0.47 in grazing sites. There was less richness in the cattle grazing area, with a single species accounting for a high percentage of coverage, indicating the possible role of grazing on the plant community structure.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of the soil macrofauna in coffee production systems, as well as their relationship with edaphic properties. Therefore, two coffee production systems were selected: coffee plantations at full-sun with conventional management (Intensive) and shaded coffee plantations with organic management (Traditional). In each crop system, three soil samples were collected randomly, in the form of blocks (25 × 25 cm), to a soil depth of 10 cm. In total, 17,109 individuals were recorded in this study being the Oligochaeta group the most representative, regardless of the coffee production system. The average density of soil macrofauna was higher in traditional coffee plantations (p < 0.05) due to the higher density of Oligochaeta, Diplopoda and Blattodea. The traditional coffee plantations provided a better soil chemical fertility reflected in the principal component analysis. Furthermore, these chemical attributes probably could affect the occurrence of the soil macrofauna groups.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Ants interact with seeds, and frequently remove their appendages. This work aimed to evaluate the effect of ants on the germination of Guarea guidonia (Meliaceae) seeds through removing the fleshy tissue of their integument (sarcotesta). The seeds were subjected to the following treatments: control (no sarcotesta removal), manual removal, and removal by ants. The results show that germination percentage and time varied among treatments, with removal by ants showing the highest percentage within the shortest possible time. The positive effect of sarcotesta removal by ants points to a possible action of anti-fungal substances. As germination is an essential step for recruitment, ant activity may be important to the regeneration of a deforested area. Further studies should consider germination experiments under natural conditions in order to increase the understanding on plant development.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Production systems with woody perennial plants, ideally timber trees, are technologies accepted in carbon (C) projects to mitigate climate change. This research had as purpose the estimation of C storage and fixation in coffee production systems in Cundinamarca, Colombia. Carbon in biomass, necromass and soil were estimated in coffee plantations with three different shade levels (low, medium and high) in three municipalities using IPCC’s recommendations. Soil stored 75% of the total C (93.9 to 137.7 Mg C ha–1 in the upper 30 cm), followed by trees (19%). Carbon increases with a rise in shade (55.8 vs 42.0 vs 23.0 Mg C ha–1 for high, medium and low shade, respectively). These coffee plantations fixed a mean of 2.3 Mg C ha–1 year–1, with a maximum value of ~7.1 Mg CO ha–1 year–1 under a shade of 30% to 40%. Coffee plantations, especially with high shade, have a high potential of C fixation and mitigate climate change.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to model the potential effect of future climate change on the distribution of a tree species indicator of Cerrado. For the modeling, we used 488 occurrence points of the species and also bioclimatic variables corresponding to 2050 and 2070, for the more optimistic and pessimistic scenarios. All generated models were classified as consistent, getting an area under curve higher than 0.90. The current modeling of Connarus suberosus showed that 88% of the area with a high probability of species occurrence is inside the Cerrado domain. Future projections suggest losses in the environmental suitability area around 40.8% and 44.8% in the optimistic scenario, 61.6% and 81.6% in the pessimistic scenario considering 2050 and 2070, respectively. Furthermore, we found a tendency of the C. suberosus to move in the Atlantic Forest direction. This modeling is an alert that the C. suberosus will suffer from future climate change.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT It was estimated the climate change adaptation of the main coffee production systems in Líbano, Tolima, Colombia, using diversity indicators. Three production systems were selected: agroforestry systems (AFS) with Cordia alliodora, AFS with plantain and in monoculture, with four replications, locating five sampling units to collect and identify the ant genera as diversity and adaptation indicators. The richness index of Margalef detected between systems (1.3 vs 0.6 vs 0.6 for AFS with C. alliodora, monoculure and AFS with plantain, respectively). The genera Cephalotes, Dorymyrmex, Hypoponera, Pachycondyla, Octostruma and Proceratium, which require abundant biomass and litter, were registered just in AFS with C. alliodora, coinciding with the depth of this layer. The AFS with C. alliodora present advantages due they improve conditions for the conservation of several groups of ants, which are indicators of diversity and climate change adaptation.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT This study evaluated the response to fertilization at advanced ages in Eucalyptus stands. Fertilization at advanced ages (FA) was applied in stands managed according to tall shaft and coppice regimes. All stands received operational fertilization from the company. It was used as the basis to the network of continuous forestry inventory plots (P-IFC) of the company. Connected to the P-IFC, twin-plots received FA throughout four age classes, 30 to 35, 42 to 47, 54 to 59 and 66 to 70 months. The FA presented a biological response and provided volumetric gains of 17 and 51% for stands with tall shaft and coppice, respectively. The most significant responses to the FA was seen at younger ages of the forest in the tall shaft regime. Despite the biological response, the volumetric gains did not provide financial returns in either regime due to the elevated doses applied.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT In this paper we discuss the impact on conversion degraded pasture areas into an integrated crop, livestock and forest system (ICLFS). We collected 30 soil samples at 0-0.1 m depth in five agroforestry systems, degraded pasture and native areas along Brazilian Cerrado biome. We analyzed the influence of chemical variables on microbial biomass carbon and enzyme activity using multivariate statistic analysis. The land use explained only the variation of microbial biomass carbon and seasonality explained the variation in glycine aminopeptidase activity. The sample controls differ from the other soil areas due to their greater biological activity (MBC). The enzymatic indicators showed that the biological activity is lower in degraded pasture. It was observed that the ICLFS system had a positive effect on the microbial activity (MBC and soil enzyme) when compared to pasture. This reinforces the importance of adopting more sustainable practices to improve soil quality.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Urban tree cover has important environmental and social functions and can act as ecological refuges. The objective of the present study was to investigate the taxonomic and functional diversities of urban plant communities in Alfenas, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. We sampled all trees DBH ≥ 3 cm in eight different urban green areas, recording 1,138 individuals and 119 species; two species were dominant: Poincianella pluviosa (Fabaceae) and Syagrus romanzoffiana (Arecaceae). The high species richness encountered reflected, in part, the presence of exotic species, which corresponded to 40% of the species and 25% of the total abundance. The functional diversity index (HF') was considered low, with the predominant functional traits among the species being small size, entomophily, zoochory, evergreen leaves, and dry fruits. We recommend that future urban afforestation projects incorporate strategies that increase the use of regional species as well as the functional diversity/complexity of those environments.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Necromass is a crucial component for the forest structure. However, there are few studies of necromass quantification in tropical rainforests and lack of efficient sampling methods. This research aimed at verifying the accuracy and effectiveness of sampling methods (Line-intersect sampling - LIS versus fixed area plots - FA) for the estimation of necromass in a tropical rainforest. The accuracy and efficiency of the methods were evaluated through descriptive statistics, paired t-test, ANOVA and relative efficiency. LIS method was more accurate and efficient, but it requires high sampling to meet sample error of 15%. Necromass at the forest fragment studied accounted for about 12.28% of the tree biomass. These findings show the importance of this compartment inclusion when quantifying carbon stocks in humid tropical forests, which acts as a true reservoir of carbon.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Rainfall is one of the primary nutrient inputs to vegetation and its chemical composition is dependent on air quality as falling rain scavenges gaseous and particulate emissions from natural, industrial, and agricultural activities. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether the vegetation burn in a region of the Pampa biome influences the pH and chemical composition (anions) in incident rainfall. Nitrate, sulfate, and chloride concentrations, as well as the pH of the rainwater, were influenced by suspended particles in the atmosphere from biomass burning of native grassland and pasture renewal. The rainwater was acidified by, ash, and soot, which introduced large amounts of chloride and sulfate into the ecosystems caused by burning vegetation.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT The heterogeneous light pattern in forest environments leads to specific morphological and physiological responses. However, anthropogenic pressures in areas such as Atlantic Forest and Cerrado are modifying the light availability, and consequently the forest community composition. The aim of this study was to investigate the plasticity of forest species Pimenta pseudocaryophyllus under full sunlight and shade conditions. P. pseudocaryophyllus showed typical shade plant phenotype, with higher net photosynthesis, transpiration, and chlorophyll a and b contents when cultivated under this condition. The decrease in net photosynthesis under full sunlight conditions is probably related to PSII photoinhibition. In addition, under full sunlight, reduced height, number of leaves, and specific leaf area was observed, while plants in shade increased these characteristics. P. pseudocaryophyllus did not show high morphological and physiological plasticity, which may be a maladaptive response. It was concluded that forest disturbances could compromise the occurrence and survival of P. pseudocaryophyllus.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT The objective of this work was to evaluate the forest restoration of Guapiaçu river basin in Macacu, RJ, using the families of coleobrocas as tools for environmental assessment. We analyzed the fluctuation of the families of Coleoptera: Cerambycidae, Lyctidae, Anobiidae, Bostrichidae and Curculionidae. Six sampling points were arranged along the river, five points being inferred in reforestation carried out in the basin and a point in the control area of natural regeneration the amount of Guapiaçu river. The collection period started in January 2013, and ended in December 2015. Through quali-quantitative data, there is a greater population density of sub-family Scolytinae in periods of high temperature and humidity and areas more populated by pioneer species used in forest restoration. After the end of the monitoring period, we proposed a model of environmental assessment through the frequency of occurrence of families of coleobrocas collected in forest fragments.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Spondias mombin L. is a fruit species native to the Amazon with great marketing potential. The aim of this study was to examine the meiotic behavior and pollen viability of S. mombin. Flower buds at various developmental stages were collected for analyses of pollen viability, in vitro germination, and meiotic behavior. S. mombin is diploid with 2n = 2x = 30 chromosomes. Meiosis showed to be regular, with only 13.3% of cells with abnormal division. A high meiotic index was found: 96.5%. Pollen viability did not differ between male (96.3%) and bisexual (96.7%) flowers, and the overall mean of viable pollen was considered high (96.5%). Pollen germination occurred in all tested media, with the treatment containing 20% sucrose and 50 mg mL‒1 boric acid being the most suitable. The highest pollen germination means occurred after 36 h of incubation. The obtained information can be used in the planning and implementation of commercial crops of the species.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT We examined the climatic response of Cedrela fissilis radial growth based on precipitation, air relative humidity, temperature and monthly thermal amplitude. It was intended to assess how the secondary growth of C. fissilis is influenced by the climatic variables and which one are the best growth predictors in Ombrophilous Mixed Forest, southern Brazil. Wood cores were processed using classical dendrochronology methodology. Principal Components Analysis, Generalized Linear Models and correlation were used to explore the relationship between radial growth and climate. Our results indicated that the best radial growth predictor is the temperature: the seasonal behavior, under well-watered conditions, seems to have a dominant effect on growth responses. Changes in tree growth corresponding to an increase in temperatures suggest a sensitivity of the species to climate changes. These results are important to help understand how the global warming may influence long-lived pioneer tree growth.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT According to previous studies involving biometric variables modeling using remote sensing (RS), data did not consider the effects of anthropogenic disturbance as relevant factor. The main objective of this study was to model aboveground biomass (AGB) and total wood volume (TWV) of Brazilian Savanna biome using vegetation indices (VI) from LANDSAT 5 TM. Multiple linear regression (MLR) and random forest (RF) algorithm were applied across 641 field plots of cerrado sensu stricto of the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, comparing two models: non-stratified, and stratified according to plot’s anthropization degree. AGB and TWV obtained from non-anthropized plots presented linear relation with VIs (R2 = 0.82 and 0.74, respectively) and, on the other hand, presented nonlinear relation when plots were affected by anthropogenic disturbances or were not stratified. This finding helps improving estimates by stratifying plots into their anthropization degree, mainly in the Brazilian Savanna biome undergoing anthropogenic disturbances.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT The species Cecropia pachystachya has important medicinal purposes and its leaves have been used in pharmaceutical research, so the drying of this product may help maintaining its chemical properties and ensure safe storage. Thus, the objective of this study was to select mathematical models to represent the drying kinetics of Cecropia pachystachya leaves, determine the effective diffusion coefficient and obtain the activation energy during drying at different temperatures. Leaves were dried in an oven under five temperature conditions (40, 50, 60 and 70 °C), until reaching hygroscopic equilibrium moisture content. Among the models analyzed, the Logarithmic model best represented the drying kinetics at temperatures of 40 and 60 °C, whereas Modified Henderson & Pabis and Dryceleaves represented temperatures of 50 and 70 °C, respectively. The effective diffusion coefficient increased with increasing air temperature, and the activation energy for liquid diffusion in the drying process was 64.53 kJ mol-1.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to analyze the biological contribution to macroaggregate formation under cocoa agroforestry systems, as well as to evaluate the potential of macroaggregates to store carbon. The variation of the populations of macrofauna and the relationship with the morphology of aggregates was monitored in five agroforestry systems associated with cocoa established from different land uses, taking as reference the forest and pasture. Some cacao agroforestry systems favored the presence of macrofauna functional groups similar to the forest (p < 0.05). According to the principal component analysis, the effect of land use on macroaggregate formation is highly significant (p < 0.001) and explained 55% of the total variance. The macrofauna and macroaggregates showed significant covariation (RV = 0.22, p-value = 0.001). Biogenic macroaggregates contained more carbon when they came from agroforestry systems.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Mussununga is an understudied ecosystem within the Atlantic Forest domain, in sandy spodosol lowlands from Bahia to Espírito Santo. Its physiognomy varies from grassland to forest, with a transitional savannic area. We evaluated the life-form spectra differences between the grassland and savanna Mussunungas and its relationship with the depth of a soil impermeable layer (ortstein). The study area is located in the municipality of Linhares, Espírito Santo State. Ten plots were settled in each physiognomy. The floristic and vegetation spectra (accordingly to Raunkiaer) were compared using the G-test. A total of 35 species into three life-forms were found: Phanerophytes, hemicryptophytes and cryptophytes. The floristic spectra were similar in both physiognomies, with a greater richness of phanerophytes. However, the vegetation spectra of the two areas were different. Phanerophytes dominated in the savannas (where ortstein is deeper), while the shallower ortstein of the grasslands favored hemicryptophytes.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Eremanthus erythropappus is a commercially-important tree which has a long history of exploitation in the Brazilian State of Minas Gerais. The knowledge on the potential geographical distribution of E. erythropappus is therefore critical for the species sustainability. Thus, the aim of this study was to estimate and map current and future ecological niche for E. erythropappus in Minas Gerais. We used the Random Forests algorithm to model the ecological niche for current and future climates scenarios. Our predictions indicate Espinhaço, Mantiqueira, and Canastra mountain ranges as core areas of distribution and forecast drastic reductions in potential areas under all climate scenarios. Based on our results, we highlight that the continual harvesting of naturally-occurring E. erythropappus populations will not be sufficient to supply the market demand. Silviculture practices would likely serve as an economically viable and ecological sustainable alternative to harvesting natural populations.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT The objective of this work was to evaluate the forest restoration of the basin of Guapiaçu river in Cachoeiras de Macacu, Rio de Janeiro state, using the families of Termites as tools for environmental assessment. We analyzed the population fluctuation and feeding guilds of the families of Termites: Kalotermitidae, Rhinotermitidae and Termitidae. Six sampling points were arranged along Guapiaçu river, five points being inferred in reforestation carried out in the basin and a point in a regeneration control area. Quantitative and qualitative surveys followed standard protocols and the samples were obtained directly, without baits. Thirty species within 25 genera were identified and the family Termitidae was the most frequent. The termite fauna of the control point P06 was the richest. From the frequencies of occurrence of the species related to their trophic guild, an ecological evaluation table of the environments was proposed. The P05 area, rich in plant species, presented the greatest similarity to the natural regeneration area P06. The majority of the species was classified as xilophagous.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT This study applied a deforestation model for the entire State of Rondônia assuming three scenarios of deforestation: business as usual, optimistic and pessimistic. Those scenarios were constructed for the time-period of 2012-2050 using the Dinamica EGO software. Rondônia deforestation dataset was provided by the Agência Ambiental do Estado de Rondônia (Rondônia State Environmental Agency) and was used as input of the deforestation modeling. Based on this study results, we estimated that 32%, 37% and 47% of Rondônia’s native forest could be fully deforested by 2050 assuming the optimistic, business as usual and pessimistic scenarios, respectively. Regardless of the chosen scenario, we expect that deforestation will be spatially concentrated in Northern Rondônia in the next decades. The greatest concern, however, could be the integrity of the protected areas assuming the business as usual and/or pessimistic scenario. In addition, we expect a substantial increase of the forest fragmentation by 2050.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT The objective of this work was to study the fiber length variation, retractability and basic density, in the core-bark direction and along the heig of the red tauari wood (Cariniana micrantha Ducke). The stem was evaluated in the discs, from core to bark, corresponding to 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%. At the commercial height of the tree the evaluation was carried out in the Base, DBH, 50%, 75% and 100%. Three trees were collected and 5 discs of 12 cm of thickness were taken from each tree the heights: Base, DAP, 50%, 75% and 100%. Results indicated that the fiber length increases in the radial direction core-bark and decreases in the longitudinal direction, from base to top. The analysis of the basic density varied in the core-bark direction, with tendency to increase from the position of 50% (heartwood), then decreasing in the sapwood region. Total volumetric and linear contractions decreased in the core-bark direction.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Currently, there is a little and sparse information about how the growing conditions influence the spatial variation of wood along the stem. Thus, the aim of this study was to compile the knowledge from literature in a manuscript for better understanding to what extent the growing conditions influence the spatial variation of wood properties in Eucalyptus plantations. The wood characteristics may present variations in their properties and can be caused by both genetic and environmental factors. However, how genetic and environmental factor acts on wood variation along the trunk is still unclear. Another point is that even with new genetic breeding programs, the mechanical properties of wood have not been considered in these programs, since the selection of new material is always based on the growing rate, cellulose and lignin content and wood density.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Heterotermes longiceps termites was observed causing injuries in Tectona grandis plants in a forest plantation in Cáceres, Mato Grosso, Brazil. H. longiceps caused galleries below the bark, at the heartwood-sapwood interface, from the beginning of the root until approximately 1 m height tall and very infested plants has died. This is the first report of H. longiceps damage in teak in Brazil.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Termites of the species Cornitermes cumulans (Kollar, 1832) were observed causing injuries in the stem of Tectona grandis in commercial forest plantations in Cáceres, Mato Grosso state, Brazil. C. cumulans forms galleries below the bark, at the heartwood/sap-wood interface of 1.8 years-old trees. This is the first occurrence of this type of injury in stem caused by C. cumulans in T. grandis in Brazil.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT The objective of this research is to report the occurrence of the nigra scale Parasaissetia nigra (Nietner, 1861) (Hemiptera: Coccidae) in mahogany (Khaya ivorensis) seedlings in a forest nursery in Mato Grosso state. In September 2017, the infestation was detected on the leaves and branches of the plants, causing injury and the death of the apical meristem and leaf curling symptoms. It was verified the symbiosis of P. nigra with ants, due to the sugary exudate. The chemical control was performed with insecticidal syrup and the proposed method was effective. This was the first reported occurrence of P. nigra on African mahogany in Brazil.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Sapindaceae family presents notable richness of liana species in the Neotropics. Many of them are potentially ornamental, but still unexplored. Two Sapindaceae species were selected to test the efficiency of thiamine hydrochloride in plant propagation from stem cuttings. Thiamine hydrochloride has an unexplored potential for higher and better rooting of plant cuttings and it is a cheaper alternative to the traditional usage of phytohormones. Results showed no difference between treatment and control for all root variables evaluated in the two species studied. Seedling production from cuttings does not require application of thiamine hydrochloride in the concentration used to ensure rooting; only water irrigation is sufficient. However, further experiments involving different concentrations of thiamin hydrochloride should be conducted to detect whether different concentrations influence rooting.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Gyropsylla spegazziniana is one of the most important pest of yerba mate by sap-sucking that lead to leaves deformation and there are no insecticides registered for its control. The present study describes a new technique to be used in bioassays with the insect. Galls were collected from infested yerba mate plants. In the laboratory, the galls were partially opened and distributed in plastic containers. The emerged adults were transferred to plastic containers with the perforated bottom and a central opening in the lid, and subjected to spraying. After that, insects were transferred to yerba mate seedlings in plastic cages and maintained in laboratory to daily assessment. The use of a lid with central opening prevented the insects escaping, and avoiding the previous anesthetic to spraying. The mortality was less than 10% after 10 days. The technique was considered adequate for maintenance and performance of laboratory bioassays.