DIAMETRIC STRUCTURE OF A DECIDUOUS FOREST FRAGMENT IN THE AGRIBUSINESS REGION OF WESTERN SANTA CATARINA STATE, BRAZIL

Forest structure studies may be carried out through the diametric distribution of individuals within a population, which is defined by characterizing the number of trees per unit area and diameter class intervals. The De Liocourt's q quotient can be used to assess the relationship between recruitment and mortality in forest communities because when a constant ratio occurs between the classes, it represents that the recruitment rate is similar to the mortality rate and the distribution can be considered as regular or balanced. This study aims to analyze the diametric structure of the arboreal component of a seasonal deciduous forest fragment located in the Peixe River Valley, Midwest of Santa Catarina State, Brazil. The sampled individuals were distributed in diameter classes with an amplitude of 5 cm, in which the center of the first class presented a value of 6.5 cm. Subsequently, the observed and estimated diametric distribution curves were constructed for the overall sampling and for species with the highest importance value (IV) and with different ecological attributes. The study area presented a deficit of trees in the overall and per species diameter classes when compared to a balanced forest. The De Liocourt's q quotient can be used to assess the diametric structure of deciduous forest fragments.