Structure of natural regeneration in Anadenanthera colubrina altitude swamp fragment in Bananeiras, PB, Brazil

Abstract

The habitats destruction linked to fragmentation causes serious consequences for vegetation in general, especially considering the Northeast Atlantic Forest. The Northeastern Swamps of Altitudes are areas with microclimates dissociating from extensions where they are inserted. Knowledge of the natural regeneration potential is the key to understanding the dynamics of vegetation. The study aimed to evaluate the recruitment and mortality of Anadenanthera colubrina regenerating occurring in Open Rain Forest fragments. In a population of A. colubrina, ten plots with 10 m x 10 m were established, near matrices plants. All specimens with 1 m height or lower were numbered and monitored for 9 months. The stem diameter of the taxon showed continuous growth. The monthly average increment in diameter was at first 1.8 mm and at the end 2.3 mm, and the average stem increment in height was 20 cm at the first month  and 25.9 cm at the last month evaluate. The mortality rate reached 50%. Environmental and anthropogenic factors and seed predation contribute to mortality of regenerating individuals.