Evaluation of the street arborization of São Tomé, Paraná state

Abstract

Along with the development of urban centers, the concern about maintaining the quality of life in these areas is growing. Therefore, urban forestry is important in the improvement of health, social and aesthetic aspects. In this light, the problem of studying the existence of unwanted characteristics of plants and space compatible with public facilities has significant relevance. This study aimed to evaluate the street afforestation of São Tomé town, Paraná state, Brazil, which corresponds to a small urban center. In order to do this, a census was carried out of all samples of arboreal size, or conducted to this, taller than 1,0 meter present along the thoroughfares of the town, and further analysis of the found species regarding the fulfillment of the technical standards on qualitative aspects: origin, existence of large fleshy fruits and toxic principle and the presence of thorns and aculei, respectively, and then the quantification and classification of the damage of roots and crowns to public equipment. 63 different vegetal species were verified, with a total of 3,085 individuals, predominantly with Licania tomentosa (Benth.) Fritsch (Chrysobalanaceae) (n = 1120). After analyzing of the indicated parameters, it has been suggested the replacement of 635 samples of 41 species (20,58% of total incidence) per vegetal species suitable to the technical standards. Among the 22 suitable species for use in the thoroughfare afforestation found in the city, Handroanthus chrysotrichus (Mart. ex DC.) Mattos (Bignoniaceae), Handroanthus heptaphyllus Mattos (Bignoniaceae) and Tabebuia roseoalba (Ridl.) Sandwith (Bignoniaceae) stand out, considering the benefits to citizens.