Population structure and fruit productivity analyses in support of the use of Caryocar brasiliense

Abstract

The Brazilian Cerrado, a global biodiversity hotspot, has been widely converted by agricultural expansion and pasture establishment. As a result of these activities, several plant species have experienced population declines such as pequi (Caryocar brasiliense). We analyzed the feasibility of economic use of C. brasiliense based on population structure and fruit productivity. The average fruit production was high and significantly different between 2013 (515 fruits ind-1) and 2014 (344 fruits ind-1) (t = 2.32, p < 0.01), with 33% less fruit production in 2014. The canopy area (r2 = 0.22, p < 0.05) was the only population parameter related to productivity (2013). One hectare may yield an average of one ton of complete fruits, which is equivalent to up to 16 liters of pulp oil. The family income obtained with oil pulp sale could up to R$ 1,080 (US$ 327). We support the hypothesis that high pequi fruit productivity makes the extraction of this resource viable, especially for giant earthworm extractors.