Do soil variations influence the floristic-structural composition of alluvial forests?

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate if the floristic-structural composition of an alluvial forest is influenced by pedological variations and if there is low floristic diversity and similarity in these environments. Furthermore, it aimed to assess whether, independently of the type of soil, these forests have monodominance. The study was carried out in the Iguaçu River, in the municipality of Araucária, Paraná state, where two soil classes were mapped and demarcated: Gleysol and Fluvisol. To analyze the phytosociological structure, we installed 10 plots of 10 m x 10 m in each compartment and monitor the average depth of the water table. We sampled thirty-nine species, distributed in 21 botanical families. Of these, only six ones were similar to both compartments. The fluctuation of the water table differed between the compartments, being closer to the surface in the Gleysol. Gymnanthes klotzschiana showed the highest values of density, dominance, and importance in both compartments. The second most important species in Gleysol was Myrciaria tenella and in the Fluvisol Araucaria angustifolia stands out, due to the greater depth of the water table and the non-hydromorphic character of the soil. The riparian environments presented floristic-structural distinctions, highlighting the need for compartmentalization based on pedological parameters, thus obtaining a more detailed understanding of the plant community.

Keywords:
Riparian environment; Alluvial Mixed Ombrophylous Forest; Gleysols; Fluvisols