Phytosociological analysis of shrubby-arboreal stratum in a restinga forest in Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil

Abstract

This study aimed to characterize the structure of the woody component in a restinga forest of approximately 60 ha and compare it to studies in other restinga areas in the Northeast region of Brazil. The study area (06º11’00'’S and 35º17’30'’W) has 30 m in height and sandy soil. Five 100m transects were installed, totaling 50 points, and the inclusion criteria established considered the species with perimeter at ground level > 10cm. 25 species, 22 genera and 20 families were sampled, whereas the species with the highest importance value were Manilkara salzmannii, Eugenia punicifolia, Inga capitata, Casearia javitensis, Maytenus distichophylla, Guettarda platypoda, Cupania racemosa and Simaba cuneata. The average height was 3.7 m, and the average diameter was 15.3 cm. Maytenus distichophylla, Eugenia punicifolia and Casearia javitensis individuals had the shortest grades in diameter, probably because the species are part of the initial secondary. The Shannon Index of diversity was 2.597 nat ind^-1, similar to the studies in coastal vegetation of Northeastern Brazil, presenting, however, a structural composition of plants with thin trunks, forming thickets, giving a more enclosed appearance to the physiognomy.