Diagnóstico da arborização da praça "Parque Ecológico de Capim Macio", Natal/RN

Abstract

The planning of afforestation is essential in urban development, so that there are no losses and disadvantages for society and the public purse. Therefore, this work aimed to carry out a qualitative and quantitative diagnosis of the vegetation and the existing structure in the Square named "Parque Ecológico de Capim Macio", located in Natal-RN, in order to provide subsidies for planning and serve as a base for vegetation management. For this, shrubs and trees were identified and measured. Qualitative data were obtained from on-site visits and through photographic records and completion of a data collection form. In addition to the botanical identification and measurement of DBH (diameter at breast height), the phytosanitary status, physical damage (injuries), conflicts between vegetation and urban elements, pruning actions and the physical infrastructure of the Square were evaluated. A total of 271 individuals distributed in 29 species and 13 distinct botanical families were surveyed and identified. The most representative families were Apocynaceae (51.0%), Arecaceae (13.2%), Myrtaceae (11.8%), Fabaceae (9.2%) and Bignoniaceae (5.1%). The predominant species was Honcornia speciosa (Mangabeira) (26.9% of individuals), followed by Anacardium ocidentale (Cajueiro) (15.5%) and Cocos nucifera (Coqueiro) (13.2%). Of the total number of identified individuals, 78.6% (213) are of native origin. Most individuals (52.4%) are small, with an average height of 4.5m and an average DBH of 30 cm. Despite this, 67.9% of them had leafy crowns, unbalanced with low and overhanging branches, requiring cleaning and elevation pruning. The remainder, even with medium (21.4%) or thin (10.7%) crowns, also showed a need for cleaning pruning. Most of the individuals presented some type of physical damage (injury) (69.4%) or some type of infestation by pathogens (79.7%). Precariousness was noticed in the square's infrastructure, requiring interventions.