Floristic and Structure of Woody Vegetation in a Caatinga Area Between 2015 and 2019, in ASSÚ/RN

Abstract

To characterize the floristic composition and horizontal structure of the National Forest of Açú from 2015 to 2019, 20 permanent plots of 400 m² were allocated, and all woody individuals with a diameter at breast height (CBH) ≥ 2 cm were measured on both occasions. Between 2015 and 2019, there was an increase in floristic richness from 23 to 34 species, especially Cenostigma pyramidale and Handroanthus impetiginosus due to their high phytosociological values. Although an 8.7% reduction in the number of individuals in the 4.4 cm class center was observed between the respective years, there was a volumetric increase of 4.85 m³ ha -1 , that is 1.21 m³ ha -1 year -1 . Changes in floristic composition, diameter distribution, and volumetry reflect the development of vegetation and part of its dynamics; indicating its state of conservation and, consequently, the achievement of the conservation objectives proposed by the Unit.