Edge effect on floristics and structure in Seasonal Semi-deciduous Forest in the Semi-arid region

Abstract

Forest fragmentation is a reality in several Brazilian regions due to high deforestation rates. Studies on these fragments are fundamental, as they enable monitoring and predicting the transformations of populations and isolated plant communities. This work aimed to evaluate the edge effect on the phytosociological and floristic structure of a Montane Seasonal Semi-deciduous Forest fragment in Vitória da Conquista, BA, Brazil. The methodology used is a hierarchical and divisive classification of species (TWINSPAN), which enables identifying groups of species which characterize each sample, but is rarely used in the literature in this context. The studied fragment is influenced by the edge effect, evidenced by the increase in the average height and diameter of individuals towards the fragment interior. The addition to a clear distinction between species compositions, being minimized 90 m away from the edge.