Composition of successional categories in the horizontal, vertical and diametric structures of a Montane Mixed Ombrophilous Forest

Abstract

This study aimed to verify the composition of successional groups in the structure of the arboreal component of a remnant of Montane Mixed Ombrophilous Forest, Nova Prata- RS, emphasizing the horizontal, vertical and diametric structure. A total of 71 plots of 10 x 100 m were systematically installed for the sampling of the arboreal component (circumference at breast height ? 30.0cm). The late secondary species (286.2 individuals ha-1; 15.37 m2 ha-1, 45.60%) and early secondary species (274.9 individuals ha-1; 13.91 m2 ha-1, 45.86%) showed the highest density, dominance and importance value, respectively. Late secondary (36.5% of individuals), early secondary (38.3% of individuals) and pioneers (53.4% of individuals) presented the highest percentage of individuals in the lower, middle and upper strata, respectively. The three successional groups showed diametric structure prone to negative exponential, similar to the arboreal component in general condition, however, late successional presented more developed structure, with individuals in all the diameter classes, evidencing that the forest has favored the development of these species.