Floristic and structural characterization of a forest fragment in the central region of Rio Grande do Sul State

The knowledge of the structure and composition of forest species together with the understanding of the formation of floristic groups is an important subsidy for the definition of conservation and restoration strategies. The present study analyzed the structure, diversity and floristic clusters of a forest fragment with a history of degradation, in the State Park Quarta Colonia, central region of Rio Grande do Sul. In 2012, tree individuals with CBH >= 15 cm were evaluated in 16 plots of 10x10 m. For analysis of the floristic structure density and frequency were calculated in absolute data, Shannon diversity (H') and Pielou equability (J). The vegetation characterization was performed through the cluster analysis, using the Twinspan method. The fragment presented groups in the early and advanced stages of succession. Among the raised species Escallonia bifida was highlighted as an indicator in the formation of floristic groups of open areas. The high values of density and frequency of the species also characterize it as the most important in the horizontal structure of the forest fragment, demonstrating potential for use in restoration actions.