Abstract

GUTIERREZ-GRANADOS, Gabriel  and  DIRZO, Rodolfo. Seed removal, herbivory and seedling recruitment of Brosimum alicastrum (Moraceae) in sites with contrasting management at the Selva Maya, Quintana Roo, Mexico. Bol. Soc. Bot. Méx [online]. 2009, n.85, pp.51-58. ISSN 0366-2128.

The impact of timber extraction was evaluated on Brosimum alicastrum, particularly on seed removal, recruitment and seedling herbivory. A series of experimental exclusions were established in logged and unlogged areas. Results showed that seed removal and recruitment were larger in timber extraction areas. Nonetheless foliar damage was more intense in unlogged areas and it showed a denso-dependency, whereas in timber extraction areas density effects were not significative. Therefore establishment of plants differs according to management conditions. Results suggest that timber extraction affects plant establishment via alteration of denso-dependency what in the long-term would cause an over-representation of some species affecting diversity of tropical rain forests.

Keywords : Brosimum alicastrum; regeneration; surviving; timber extraction; tropical rainforests; understory.

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