The objective of this study was to develop and quantitatively evaluate a diametric distribution model for the management of thinned teak (Tectona grandis L. f.) stands. Model construction involved data from a net of permanent plots established in teak stands, in Mato Grosso State, Brazil, owned by Floresteca Agroflorestal Ltda. A total of 239 permanent plots with a mean area of approximately 490.8 m² were used. The first thinning was carried out at 58 months (mean value) and consisted in the systematically reduction in approximately 36% of the tree number . The recovery of the diametric distribution was taken from equations comprising linear and non-linear relations between the Weibull function parameters at a future age (beta2 and gamma2) and the parameters at a present age (beta1 and gamma1), and stand characteristics in a present and a future age. Three equations systems were analyzed. Compatibility analyses of each system and identity among them were performed oo verify the consistence of the systems. The selected system guaranteed the property in which if the future age (I2) is equal to the present age (I1), the diametric distribution in the future age is equal to the diametric distribution in the present age. It was concluded that the model is compatible and recommended for thinned stands of Tectona grandis. It was also concluded that the prediction of the Weibull function parameters at a future age in function of the parameters observed at a present age is logical and generates consistent and accurate estimates.
Tectona grandis; diametric distribution; thinning; model evaluation
