Ancient and Current Distributions of Erythrina crista-galli L. (Fabaceae) in South America

Erythrina crista-galli is a native tree from South America with an important role on pharmaceutical studies. The objective of this study was to model the ancient and current ecological niches distribution of E. crista-galli in South America, contributing to the discussion about species management and conservation. A reduction in the potential area of species occurrence was detected by comparing past and present distribution. Based on the obtained results, it is expected that this species tends to expand its frontiers if the natural dynamic of the extant populations is guaranteed in southern South America. Therefore, management and conservation of E. crista-galli should focus on allowing the expansion of native forest formations where this species occurs. Additionally, further studies on the medicinal properties of the species may valorize and promote a higher interest in rational exploitation and conservation of E. crista-galli in its natural environment.

Keywords:
maximum entropy; corticeira-do-banhado; Brazilian Pampa