Soil Attributes Related with Production of Brazil Nut Tree (Bertholletia excelsa)

ABSTRACT In this study we analyzed the soil attributes related with variation in the fruit production of Brazil nut trees, as well as the nutritional status of the species. Trees were selected in permanent plot (Caracaraí - RR) and divided in four production classes: High, Medium, Low and Very low. In November 2009, soil and leaves samples were taken to evaluate soil fertility, soil colonization by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, and trees nutritional status. Trees with higher fruits production occurred associated with higher exchangeable Al in soil depth of 0-20 cm, as well as to smaller pH and bases saturation values. The discriminant variable resulting of the present study was not assumed as responsible for interfering with the productive potential of Brazil nut trees; however, it indicates most productive trees contributing with exchangeable basis removal, favoring soil acidification.