Our objective was to survey and identify the species that occur in wetlands of the uplands of the state of Santa Catarina and associate them to their bioactive potential, validated by laboratory tests or reported in ethnobotanical studies. The study was conducted in 12 wetland areas, located in farms with commercial reforestation of exotic species (these areas belong to the Klabin S.A. Company). The sampling of the vegetation was performed by transection in the transverse direction, in the widest portion of the wetlands and in the transition area to the drier portion (a limited strip of approximately 3 meters). Fertile specimens were collected at every meter of the transection. After the identification of the species, a literature review on the bioactive potential of these species was carried out on the scientific databases, using the studies that attest the potential value of the species and also studies that value the expertise from local populations. In the sampled areas, 235 species were identified and classified into 40 botanical families. From these, 28 species, classified into 11 families, have bioactive potential. Among all species identified, 18 showed scientifically accredited bioactive potential and 10 were cited as to their potential in ethnobotanical studies. Little is known about the diversity of the wetlands in the uplands of the state of Santa Catarina, and further studies are needed to increase the knowledge on the local flora. This study showed a large number of species with validated potential and that could be used by the population, while others have not yet been studied, but that are potential candidates for further researches.
diversity; wetlands; ethnobotany
