Análise dos anéis de crescimento de Eremanthus erythropappus para o manejo sustentável de povoamentos nativos de Minas Gerais

Abstract

The present study aimed to analyze the growth of candeia trees of the species Eremanthus erythropappus from native stands in four municipalities in the southern region of the state of Minas Gerais - Brazil: Baependi, Lambari, Maria da Fé and Pedralva. Through a partnership with companies in the sector, samples of complete cross-sections of candeia stems were obtained during logging operations for the production of candeia oil and for the manufacture of fence posts. The transverse surfaces of the samples were polished to visualize the growth rings. For each sample/tree, the following parameters were determined: georeferenced location, diameter at breast height (DBH) and total height measured in the field, age and annual growth rate were determined through tree ring analyses. From these data, the growth in diameter was modeled. The results of this study demonstrated differences in age structure and growth rates at different sites: Baependi had relatively younger trees reaching the MLD (minimum logging diameter) of 5cm, in Lambari the MAI (mean annual increment) was more constant, in Maria da Fé the highest DBH of the samples were observed and in Pedralva the trees reached the MLD later. The results of the present study can contribute to differentiating site-specific minimum logging diameter based on real tree growth data. The data generated in the study may assist in the formulation of guidelines and standards for the sustainable management of Eremanthus erythropappus in the state of Minas Gerais.