Growth dynamics of Centrolobium robustum (Vell.) Mart. ex Benth. (Leguminosae-Papilionoideae) in the Atlantic Forest

Abstract

Knowledge about growth rhythm and longevity of tropical trees is essential to understand life strategies of native species, and consequently, of forest remnants. This study aims to investigate the growth dynamics of Centrolobium robustum, a representative species from Atlantic Forest. For this purpose, radial growth was examined through tree rings and cambium analysis, from macroscopical, anatomical, and ultrastructural perspectives. The apical and radial stem growth was evaluated through leaf and cambium phenology, respectively. Leaf and cambium behaviors were associated with environmental seasonality. The results showed that the period of cell production and cambial development occurred in association with leaf expansion and during the wet, warm, and long-day season. Seasonality of cambial and leaf phenology in response to the environment determined the annual formation of tree rings, and it allowed to evaluate C. robustum growth rates and longevity. Species seasonality also responded to abnormal climatic events during the study period, which shows its sensitivity to environmental changes and represents a factor to be considered in the forest management programs.