Assessment of ecological indicators in restoration by applied nucleation with different ages

Abstract

Monitoring through good ecological indicators is still a challenge in assessing the results of ecological restoration in Brazil. In this sense, the aim of this work was to evaluate ecological indicators of the restoration process by applied nucleation implanted two years and seven years ago in the south of Brazil. A total of twenty 5 m x 5 m plots were evaluated in each area, arranged systematically under the nuclei. All shrub-tree individuals with height greater than 30 cm were counted and identified. The species were classified according to the dispersion syndrome and shade tolerance. Shannon’s diversity and Pielou’s evenness indices were calculated. Canopy coverage was verified by a convex spherical densiometer. Analysis of variance (p <0.05) were used to compare floristic composition, structure and function group indicators between areas. We adjusted simple linear regression models between the area occupation of the nucleus and the richness and number of individuals of natural regeneration to verify the nuclei expansion. The results showed greater richness, diversity and canopy coverage percentage in the area with applied nucleation from seven years. There was a significant difference for composition, structure and function group indicators. The simple linear regression model for the nucleus area as a function of the number of individuals was significant (p<0.05). We concluded that the nuclei implanted seven years ago are being effective for ecological restoration. The post-implantation chronological period should be considered as a variable of influence on the effectiveness of the restoration.

Keywords:
Floristic composition; Structure; Functional groups; Ecological indicators