Estrutura populacional e avaliação de métodos de controle da espécie exótica invasora Artocarpus heterophyllus Lamk. (Moraceae) no Parque Estadual da Ilha Grande, Angra do Reis, RJ Rio de Janeiro 2011

Abstract

Currently, with the increasing number of studies on biological invasions, we know how this process occurs, its causes and inherent consequences. Prevention is still the best way to limit and reduce the increasing number of problems associated with exotic and invasive species biology. Jackfruit, Artocarpus heterophyllus Lamk. (Moraceae) is an invasive alien species that was introduced in Brazil during the colonial period. The main strategy for controlling A. heterophyllus has been a mechanical method known as girdling and remove seedlings. Using the Manual for the Nature Conservancy Invasive Species Control, this study aimed at proposing a new control method of jackfruit, and characterize the population structure of the species. The study was conducted in Ilha Grande, located in Angra dos Reis, RJ, which is covered by Atlantic forest in different successional stages. We tested a new chemical method which consisted of injecting herbicide Garlon ® diluted to 4% into the trunk of trees with DBH> 15 cm. The total of individuals sampled in 10 plots mesuring 0,64 ha each, was 684 plants. The average density was 107 individuals / ha, with densities ranging from 3340 ind / ha on the class Youth 1 (DBH <5) to 13 ind. / ha on class Adults 2 (20.1 <DBH> 25.0). The average basal area was 3,692 m² / ha. The results showed that the chemical method was more efficient than the mechanical method. The methods differed significantly after 60, 150 and 240 days of initial treatment. The results show no correlation of the mechanical method to DBH. However, the chemical method is dependent on DBH. The results showed significance with time 60 days (p = 0,009), 150 days (p = 0,039) and 240 days (p = 0.013), after analysis with the statistical test of KruskalWallis. It s now clear what the advantages of the chemical method are when comparing to the mechanical method. Less money is spent and more results are generated.