Population structure of Kielmeyera rugosa Choisy (Clusiaceae) at Serra de Itabaiana National Park, Sergipe State - doi: 10.4025/actascibiolsci.v32i2.5127

Abstract

Studies on structure, size and ontogenic stages are important to understand which factors influence population processes, regeneration and response to disturbances of a population. This study examined the structure of a population of Kielmeyera rugosa Choisy (Clusiaceae) in white sands habitat of Serra de Itabaiana, Sergipe State. Thirty 20 x 25 m plots were selected randomly selected, and their abundance of young and adult plants was recorded, as well as trunk circumference, crown height and number of stems per plant. The spatial distribution of young and adult population is aggregated, caused by their predisposition to form groups in localities with large availability of resources and favorable conditions. Another factor contributing to the aggregation is the anemochoric dispersion of the species. The study population had the highest number of individuals in lower classes of height, with few individuals in larger classes, indicating that the population is growing or in a process of self-regeneration. There are more individuals 2-3 meters high, due to burning or cutting. These events were not able to stop the recruitment process or reproduction of the species in the area, as observed by the lack of gaps in the classes of stem diameter.