Myrtaceae na Bacia do Rio Caveiras: Características Ecológicas e Usos Não Madeireiros

This study aimed to describe the floristic-structural pattern, ecological characteristics and potentials of Myrtaceae in the Caveiras River Basin. The studied Myrtaceae communities are localized in Santa Catarina Southern Plateau – municipalities of Lages, Sao Jose do Cerrito and Urupema. Four sampling units were installed in each municipality, totaling a sampling area of 30,000 m2. All Myrtaceae individuals with DBH ≥ 5 cm were surveyed within the sampling units. The Myrtaceae community structure was assessed through phytosociological descriptors and the sampling sufficiency was verified using the rarefaction method. The ecological approach, as well as the indication of non-timber use of Myrtaceae resources was inferred from a specialized bibliography and scientific database. 1,480 Myrtaceae individuals were sampled, totaling 21 species and 11 genera. The most abundant species were Myrceugenia euosma, Siphoneugena reitzii and Myrcia palustris, which represent more than 50% of the community structure. Regarding the ecological classification, the late secondary group was the most expressive (57%). The sampled species are recommended for the restoration of altered areas, ornamental (100%) as well as phytotherapic use (60%). Despite the Myrtaceae representativeness and potentials, further research is necessary to support conservation through management plans.