Impacts of logging on mangrove forest structure in the Delta do Parnaíba EPA

Abstract

Mangroves represent important traditional resources, such as food and raw materials for construction, mainly for modest local communities of fishermen. In this perspective, the influence of plant extractivism on the structure of mangrove forests was evaluated, particularly with regard to   timber products in the Ilha das Canárias (MA-Brazil) - Delta do Parnaíba Environmental Protection Area. Two sites (area 1- Anthropized; area 2- Standard) were delimitated in order to evaluate the composition and structure of the flora (plot sampling), environmental characteristics (flood system and soil) and biological processes, such as the seedling banks. The walk-in-the-woods technique was applied to key informants (n = 12), with the aim of collecting data on the species extraction. Possible limiting factors that may have influence the structure of the two phytocoenosis were detected, including salinity, available aluminum concentration, flooding level and anthropic activity. Cutting signs were found only in the Anthropized area, specifically with the species Avicennia germinans (L.) L.. Conversely, the Standard area showed a developed state of succession.