Expansão urbana e conservação da diversidade florística: o caso das Restingas da Zona de Expansão de Aracaju, SE

Caracterização das Restingas da Zona Expansão de Aracaju, SE

Abstract

Although the Restingas (coastal vegetation on sandy soils) present considerable biodiversity, they are among the most threatened ecosystems of the Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest domain. In this paper, we characterize the Restingas of a region under urban expansion (“Zona de Expansão”), in Aracaju, Sergipe, Northeastern Brazil. We prepared a floristic list from field surveys, complemented by data derived from previous botanical sampling in the region. Subsequently, we performed analyses of similarity and taxonomic distinctness between the Restingas of Aracaju and others five Restinga sites of Northeastern Brazil. We found 179 native and two alien species within six distinct Restinga phytophysiognomies. The most speciose families were Fabaceae (34), Cyperaceae (23), and Rubiaceae (12). We recorded a low value of taxonomic distinctness between these Restingas, possibly due to the presence of in situ observed anthropic impacts. The formation of floristically similar groups between the six Restingas analyzed was associated with geographic distance, although ecological and historical hypotheses could not be ruled out. We emphasize the need for actions for the preservation of the natural habitats of this region, such as the establishment of protected areas, clear delimitation of the boundaries of permanent preservation areas and more effective inspections by environmental agencies