Soil Influences on Tree Species Distribution in a Rupestrian Cerrado Area

ABSTRACT This study aimed to analyze relations between the distribution of tree species and variations in soil texture, fertility and organic matter levels in a rupestrian cerrado area located in Diamantina-MG. Individual trees with circumference at soil level (PC) ≥ 3 cm were sampled in 10 plots of 20x50m. Samples of surface soil (0.00-0.20 m of depth) were collected from each plot and analyzed for their chemical and physical properties. Through canonical correspondence analysis, Eremanthus incanus, Kielmeyera lathrophyton, Terminalia sp and Vochysia discolor show a stronger relation to higher potassium and remaining phosphorus levels; the species Xylopia sericea, Protium spruceanum and Protium heptaphyllum show a stronger relation to higher levels of organic matter and total cation exchange capacity; the species Roupala montana, Qualea grandiflora, and Erythroxylum suberosum grew uniformly in all plots. There is relation between species distribution and chemical and physical soil variables in the area.