Análise da estrutura horizontal e composição de uma floresta tropical como subsídio à ampliação do seu potencial produtivo para o manejo florestal

Abstract

The Amazon houses immense biodiversity; however, it is facing increasing environmental pressures caused by human activity. To ensure the sustainable use of forested areas and preserve their future, it is essential to understand the pattern and growth dynamics of trees in the Amazon Forest. In this context, forest inventories provide crucial data for planning forest exploitation, management, and conservation activities by collecting qualitative and quantitative information on forest resources. They have the potential to contribute to species characterization and, in certain circumstances, the definition of the Minimum Cutting Diameter (MCD) for target species. Furthermore, the analysis of diameter distribution plays a significant role by characterizing the available timber stock before exploitation and describing important features of a forest stand. Therefore, this study aims to propose a systematic analysis of diagnostic forest inventory data, supporting the formulation of strategies and the determination of parameters for sustainable forest management. The study also intends to identify species suitable for reducing the MCD based on this systematic analysis, establishing a foundation for future management plans in the Amazon. The analyzed area exhibited a floristic composition similar to that found in the Amazon region, notable for its abundance of individuals and high species diversity. The forest structure revealed a balance in diameter distribution for both overall and commercial species. Among the species with potential for exploitation in the area, it was suggested to modify the cutting MCD to 45 cm, 40 cm, and 35 cm. It is concluded that reducing the MCD does not necessarily result in an increase in logging intensity per unit area, forest degradation, or depletion of species. This is due to the existence of rules and limits established by legislation, both in terms of area and species, which regulate management activities.