Population structure and small-scale spatial pattern of Mora paraensis (Fabaceae) in a várzea forest in the Amazonian estuary

Abstract

Detailed knowledge about structural attributes and spatial patterns of tree species is fundamental to enable sustainable management of forest resources. However, this knowledge remains poorly understood in the context of eastern Amazonian floodplain forests, even of some economically important species such as Mora paraensis. In this paper, we focused on the structural parameters and spatial distribution pattern of M. paraensis in an 11.7 ha area of floodplain forest in eastern Amazonia. The structural analysis included quantitative and qualitative parameters, and the spatial distribution pattern was analyzed using the univariate Ripley’s K function. A total of 48 trees of M. paraensis were measured, with a total density of 4.1 individuals ha^-1, a mean height of 7.1 m, and a basal area of 0.2324 m² ha^-1. Mora paraensis showed a relatively good density of trees, an inverse J-shaped diameter distribution pattern, and individuals in almost every diameter class. The population was predominantly young (75% of individuals), however, the qualitative parameters suggested unfavorable conditions regarding the health of M. paraensis trees, perhaps affecting their development in this environment. At the within diameter class level, the aggregate pattern dominated in smaller diameter classes, but shifted into a random pattern in the larger diameter classes. This study reinforces the importance of using methods that take into account different distance scales, allowing a better understanding of the relationships between the species attributes and their spatial distribution pattern, especially to scientifically manage and utilize forest resources in areas with conservation interest.

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