Population structure, diametric distribution and use of Commiphora leptopholoeos (Mart.) JB Gillett in arboreal Caatinga

ABSTRACT The objective of this work was to characterize the population structure, analyze the spatial distribution pattern and identify the potential use of the Commiphora leptopholoeos in the Contendas do Sincorá National Forest, BA. Thus, three disjoint transects of 40 x 160 m were installed for the phytosociological study and spatial distribution and subdivided into 64 plots of 10 x 10 m, for which the density and frequency values of regenerating individuals (dbh < 5 cm), and the density, frequency and basal area of arboreal size were calculated (dbh ≥ 5 cm). The spatial distribution pattern was calculated by the Morisita index, Payandeh’s dispersion index and the Chi-squared test for the different populations. The diametric distribution was in the form of a reverse J-shaped, usually indicate full regeneration with constant seed production, germination and recruitment. The stems of the species were mostly healthy, but with a large tillering percentage and tortuosity below the commercial height, constituting characteristics which favor uses for firewood, stakes and poles. The spatial distribution pattern values of the species for tree size and regeneration point to an aggregate spatial distribution or to a tendency to aggregation.