This study aimed to relate variations in richness and tree community structure to soil characteristics in a gradient of riparian forest, at Parque Estadual da Mata Seca, north of Minas Gerais. Studies of soil characteristics and the richness and structure of trees (DBH ≥ 5 cm) were conducted in 39 plots of 400 m², divided equally into three sections previously selected, these being: São Francisco (lower moisture), Meio (flooding during most of the year) and Lagoa da Prata (flooding during the rainy season). The analysis of topsoill (0-20 cm) showed significant differences between the different forest sections. In all three environments were sampled 2482 individuals belonging to 36 species, 31 genera and 16 plant families. There were significant differences for the different sections in the Shannon diversity index, number of individuals, basal area and absolute dominance. The diameter distribution of the community had a great number of individuals concentred in the smallest classes, decreasing gradually. It is noteworthy that the basal area and density of subjects had significant correlations with soil most variables analyzed. Thus, the structure of the three sections studied is correlated with the textural, chemical and soil moisture, causing variations in phytosociological communities studied.
Phytosociology; Flooded riparian forest; Edaphic variations
