PROSPECTS FOR FOREST MANAGEMENT OF Carapa guianensis Aublet IN THE TAPAJÓS NATIONAL FOREST
Tree growth; Dendrochronology; Population Structure
The objectives of this study were to define MLD (minimum logging diameter) and CC (cutting cycle) for Carapa guianensis and characterize its ecological parameters in the Tapajós National Forest, with the aim of prospecting timber management actions for that species. To respond to the first objective, 30 trees were randomly selected, located in APUs (Annual Production Units) 4 and 10 in the Tapajós National Forest. Using a probe, 2 to 3 radial samples per tree were collected at a height of 1.3 m above the ground, totaling 85 cores. To model growth, the GOL (Growth-Oriented Logging) method was applied, with the construction of curves of diameter, basal area, height and volume as a function of age. The value of the current annual increment (CAI) and the mean annual increment (MAI) of the tree trunk wood was obtained from the cumulative growth in the different years. The MLD corresponded to the age at which the tree reached the highest current increase in volume. The cutting cycle was determined by estimating the average time spent passing through the 10 cm diameter classes, until reaching the calculated specific MLD. The species Carapa guianensis has distinct annual growth rings, the analysis of which allowed modeling of growth patterns in diameter, height, volume and basal area, allowing specific management criteria to be established. In order to have sustainable management, the MLD must be 50 cm, with a 14,8-year cutting cycle. The data to answer the second objective comes from the 100% (pre-exploratory) inventory of APUs 4, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 1, with inclusion level of DBH (diameter at breast height) ≥ 20 cm. The horizontal structure, diameter distribution, the spatial distribution pattern using Ripley's K method and the Kernel density for the total population and by diameter class were calculated, taking into account the geographic coordinates of the trees. The spatial distribution pattern was predominantly aggregated, being essential for the planning and execution of timber and non-timber harvesting activities for possible future management of the species. Kernel density maps proved to be an effective tool in the capacity to provide subsidies for the manager to plan both the timber exploitation of Carapa guianensis and non-timber exploitation.