PHYTOSOCIOLOGY OF CAATINGA RIPARIAN FORESTS IN JARDIM DE PIRANHAS/RN

Abstract

ABSTRACT

This study aimed to analyze the phytogeography and aspects of environmental degradation of riparian forests in the municipality of Jardim de Piranhas/RN, employing phytosociological parameters. Two transects were established in distinct localities, selected based on the conservation status of the riparian vegetation and the vegetation class mapping from the RADAMBRASIL project (1981). Data collection was conducted using the Point-Centered Quarter Method, following the steps described by Mitchell (2010). The phytosociological analysis involved calculations of density, frequency, dominance, and Importance Value (IV) for each species, as well as indices of floristic diversity and taxonomic richness. The species Geoffroea spinosa and Licania rígida were representative across all phytosociological parameters. The Shannon and Simpson diversity indices, along with the Jaccard index, revealed significant differences between the studied areas, with area 01 exhibiting greater floristic diversity but also including invasive exotic species such as Prosopis juliflora and Azadirachta indica. Area 02 demonstrated a more intact conservation state with less anthropogenic influence. This study underscores the importance of conservation and management actions for the preservation of riparian forests and the maintenance of regional biodiversity, highlighting the need for further research in riparian forest areas in the Seridó potiguar.

Key-Words: Semiarid, Phytosociology, Environmental degradation, Biodiversity