Survival and Fructification of Bertholletia excelsa Bonpl. in Deforested Areas, Oriximiná, Pará

ABSTRACT This study assessed biological conditions (survival, produtivity, regrowth) and structure of populations of Brazil nut tree (Bertholletia excelsa Bonpl.) in the proximity to the deforested roadside (Oriximiná, Pará) We studied 441 trees (Diameter at Breast Height – DBH > 10 cm), and collected geographic coordinates, dendrometric data, record of reproductive and biological status and evidence of disturbance and regrowth; 75% of the nut trees was dead. The population structure of survivors Brazil nut tree is aged (DBH average, 159 ± 0.55 cm), with low presence of young tree (DBH < 40 cm, 4.6%). Little over half of the surviving adult nut trees (DBH > 40 cm) showed evidence of fruiting; with an area of crown significantly higher than the non-productive trees. It is recommended the adoption of urgent measures for conservation and reforestation of the population of Brazil nut trees in the study area in accordance with the current environmental law.