The aim of this study was to identify the spatial distribution pattern and the populational structure of Miconia prasina D.C. in two Atlantic Forest areas at Ilha Grande, RJ. The area I (AI) is a secondary forest near 30 years of regeneration, and area II (AII) is a primary forest with few evidences of anthropic action. On each area, 40 plots (25m²) were established, where the number of individuals, height and the BHD of each individual were recorded. The pattern of spatial distribution was determined using the Morisita's Dispersion Index (Id). Possible differences on abundance, BHD and height between the two populations were tested using Student's T Test. The Morisita's Index value was 1.91 in AI and 3.32 in AII, indicating a clumped distribution pattern on both areas. There was no significant difference in abundance between populations. BHD and tree height differed significantly between populations, with AII presenting lower mean values than AI. Data suggest that the AI population is on a more advanced level of habitat occupation than AII, since it has greater mean values of BHD and height.
Miconia prasina; age structure; population density
