Inventário florestal e descrição dendrológica de árvores gigantes em unidades de conservação da Amazônia

Abstract

Large trees are fundamental elements for the stability and functioning of Amazonian forests, playing a decisive role in carbon storage, biodiversity maintenance, and microclimate regulation. Despite their ecological and economic relevance, significant knowledge gaps remain regarding their distribution, structure, and morphological characteristics, particularly in remote and poorly studied areas of the Brazilian Amazon. In this context, this study aimed to analyze floristic diversity, characterize vegetation structure, and develop dendrological descriptions of giant trees occurring in two important protected areas. Sampling was conducted through the installation of permanent 10-hectare plots in each protected area. For each individual, diameter at breast height (DBH), total height, relevant morphological traits, photographic records, and geographic coordinates were recorded. In addition, botanical samples were collected for taxonomic identification and preparation of herbarium specimens. The results revealed structural differences between the two study areas. In the Montanhas do Tumucumaque National Park, 420 individuals, 30 families, and 100 species were recorded, whereas in the Jari Ecological Station, 529 individuals distributed among 30 families and 125 species were registered. Shannon diversity and Pielou’s evenness indices indicated high floristic richness and a balanced distribution of individuals among species, reflecting well-preserved environments. Phytosociological analyses identified Dinizia excelsa, Caryocar villosum, Manilkara huberi, Allantoma decandra, and Dipteryx odorata as the most structurally influential species. These species play a central role in biomass composition, forest dynamics, and ecosystem functioning. In addition to their ecological importance, many of these species have high economic value and represent significant proportions in forest management plans, being widely used due to their wood quality, regional abundance, and commercial value. The catalog developed in this study includes detailed dendrological descriptions, photographic records, georeferenced locations, and ecological information on the identified giant tree species. This material contributes to accurate species identification, facilitates continuous monitoring, and enhances the understanding of the importance of large trees for Amazonian forest conservation.