Abstract in English:

Abstract We analyzed the composition and abundance of the vascular epiphytic flora in non-flooded and flooded (várzea) forest in the Parque Estadual do Utinga Camillo Vianna (PEUT) in the Eastern Amazon. We sampled epiphytes from 10 canopy trees with DBH = 25-35 cm in each type of vegetation. We recorded 743 individuals from 10 families, 26 genera, and 41 species, with greater specific richness and abundance in non-flooded forest (443 individuals from 33 species and 22 genera) than in flooded forest (300 individuals from 26 species and 18 genera). Eighteen species were common to both types of vegetation. Araceae stood out with the highest species richness and Bromeliaceae with the greatest abundance. We recorded Pleopeltis and five Angiosperm species, including the aroid Heteropsis spruceana (endemic to the Brazilian Amazon), for the first time in PEUT. We also recorded Heteropsis flexuosa, a threatened with extinction species in Brazil.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Schizolobium parahyba, a fast-growing tree species from South America, was introduced to Indonesia as a potential timber source. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of heat-treatment at 150-200 ºC (4h) on the physical and mechanical properties of S. parahyba wood. The results show that weight loss (WL) increased from 2.62 ± 0.29% at 150 ºC to 9.22 ± 0.86% at 190 ºC, while anti-swelling efficiency (ASE) increased from 3.44 ± 0.78% at 150 ºC to 29.84 ± 5.40 % at 180 ºC. Compressive strength parallel to grain (CP) increased from 37.99 ± 6.49 MPa (control) to 46.50 ± 5.52 MPa at 170 ºC but declined at higher temperatures. Meanwhile, static bending strength and compressive strength perpendicular to grain (CT) decreased at ≥180 ºC. Overall, moderate heat-treatment at 170 and 180 ºC enhanced dimensional stability and improved CP, whereas higher temperatures (≥180 ºC) caused substantial weight and strength losses.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Given the strategic importance of commercial forest plantations of native species, this study aimed to select a tapering model to estimate the multiple products of Schizolobium parahyba var. amazonicum planting in integrated livestock-forestry systems in the Amazon and to identify the management regime with the highest production. The research was conducted in the state of Pará, comparing production as a function of variations in spacing and planting age. The Hradetzky, Schöepfer, and Max & Burkhart tapering models were evaluated, considering goodness-of-fit statistics and scatter plots. The Schöepfer model provided the most accurate estimate of tree cross-sectional volume. The management regime with 3.5 × 3.5 m spacing and 60 months promoted the highest assortment production (164 m3) and the lowest amount of residue (60 m3), indicating the largest spacing with the highest plant utilization.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Ants are among the most abundant soil invertebrates and provide important ecosystem services. We evaluated the relationship between ant assemblages and soil attributes in a Brazilian savanna area within the Amazon biome (Roraima State). Ground ants were sampled using baits and pitfall traps across five pedoenvironments: Latossolo Amarelo, Latossolo Vermelho, Argissolo Vermelho-Amarelo, Argissolo Amarelo, and Gleissolo Háplico. In total, 48 species, 22 genera, and seven subfamilies were recorded, with Pheidole (Myrmicinae) exhibiting the highest richness. The ant assemblage in Gleissolo Háplico showed high dissimilarity compared to the other pedoenvironments, characterized by lower richness and abundance of key groups like Dolichoderinae, Dorymyrmex, Nylanderia, and Tapinoma. This pattern was mainly attributed to the high levels of soil moisture, organic matter, and extractable acidity, resulting from Gleissolo’s location at the lowest point of the toposequence. These findings can help identify bioindicators for environmental quality and support conservation measures in this savanna threatened by agricultural expansion.

Abstract in English:

Abstract The object of this research was to determine the sensitivity and bioindicator potential of the plant species Peltophorum dubium to glyphosate drift contamination by monitoring the effects of this herbicide in forests adjoining agricultural areas where it was applied. Sub dose glyphosate concentrations of 2%, 4%, 8%, 16%, and 32% of the recommended commercial dose of 1440 g ha-1 in simulated drift exposure tests revealed P. dubium intoxication to be very low (<4%) at doses lower than 115.2 g ha-1 and reached 40% when exposed to 460.8 g ha-1. In plants exposed to a dose of 460.8 g ha-1 there was a reduction in photosynthetic rate, transpiration, and stomatal conductance of 22.7%, 18.1%, and 33%, respectively, contrasted to the control dose. The morphophysiological responses of P. dubium indicate low sensitivity to glyphosate drift at lower exposure doses as well as the species’ survival capacity in areas contaminated by this herbicide.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Declining forest productivity and increasing food demand are major concerns in Java. Intercropping, which combines clonal teak with turmeric as shade-tolerant, is one approach to addressing these problems. This study specifically examined intercropping of medium-aged clonal teak with turmeric at various densities. The objective of this research was to examine the impact of stand density on the productivity and profitability of 10-year-old clonal teak and turmeric. The research was conducted from 2019 to 2021 in Ngawi. Two treatments were applied, namely stand density (1111, 833, 416, 312, and 250 trees/ha) and intercropping patterns. The results showed that a lower stand density significantly enhanced the standing stock. Intercropping resulted in a larger productivity than monocultures. Furthermore, the highest turmeric productivity at 18-month-old (±3.96 tons/ha) was observed at the second lowest density, while the highest curcumin (7.17%) was at a density of 416 trees/ha. Intercropping yielded a maximum NPV of USD 14,726.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Soils, together with forest biomass, are essential carbon reservoirs that play a key role in mitigating climate change. This study estimated soil organic carbon stock in a Regosol under a relict Pseudotsuga menziesii forest in Ejido Chinatú, Guadalupe y Calvo, Chihuahua, Mexico. Samples were collected at five depths (0-5, 5-15, 15-30, 30-60, and 60-80 cm), and organic carbon was determined using the modified Walkley and Black method. Carbon concentration decreased with depth, from 60.2 g kg⁻¹ at 0-5 cm to 24.9 g kg⁻¹ at 15-30 cm, while bulk density increased to 0.51 Mg m⁻³ at 60-80 cm. The total organic carbon stock (0-80 cm) was 100.48 Mg ha⁻¹, with the 30-60 cm layer contributing 34.21 Mg ha⁻¹. These findings highlight the importance of considering the entire soil profile when developing conservation and sustainable management strategies for temperate forests.

Abstract in English:

Abstract This study explores ionothermal liquefaction (ITL) of mangrove cellulose into levulinic acid (LA) using deep eutectic solvents (DES) under ambient pressure. Choline chloride-lactic acid (ChCl:Lac) and its FeCl₃-modified variant (DES-FeCl3) were tested for cellulose breakdown and LA production. The highest yields (158.8 and 153.0 g/kg of delignified wood) were achieved with 1:7 DES at 180°C and 1:10 DES at 200°C. GC-MS and NMR confirmed LA as a major bio-oil component. Molecular dynamics simulations showed DES promotes cellulose depolymerization through hydrogen bonding, facilitating dehydration to LA. This approach offers an effective, low-impact alternative to acid hydrolysis, requiring no high-pressure systems or hazardous reagents. It demonstrates the potential for sustainable biofuel production in decentralized settings, reducing energy needs, minimizing environmental risks, and enhancing scalability, making it a promising pathway for eco-friendly biofuel technologies.

Abstract in English:

Abstract The proper use of agro-industrial waste is a sustainability strategy and can be applied in the forestry chain to replace polypropylene tubes. This study evaluated the performance of three different biodegradable containers (110 cm3), made from malt bagasse, poultry litter, and coconut coir fiber, respectively, in the production of Libidibia ferrea seedlings, and compared them with the control container (polypropylene) under nursery conditions. Morphological parameters and the Dickson Quality Index (DQI) were evaluated. Seedlings grown in malt bagasse showed superior growth in all morphological parameters (p < 0.01) and the highest DQI (0.23), significantly surpassing the other treatments. Malt bagasse provided total biomass gains (TBM) up to 6 times higher than polypropylene. Poultry litter and coconut coir fiber containers showed comparable performance to polypropylene. It is concluded that malt bagasse is a highly efficient technical and sustainable alternative container for producing L. ferrea seedlings.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Degradation of the Ombrophilous Dense Forest in the Lowlands, driven by cattle ranching and invasive species, limits natural regeneration. Species of the genus Inga are widely used as facilitators in restoration in this ecosystem, but are frequently treated as a uniform group despite their functional differences. We compared the growth and shading capacity of I. edulis, I. marginata, and I. laurina to provide better criteria for species selection in restoration plantings. Using morphometric variables (diameter at breast height, total height) and derived metrics (basal area, volume, and slenderness index), combined with qualitative crown assessments, we found that I. edulis excels in fast growth and high biomass production, I. laurina demonstrates greater structural robustness and denser crowns, and I. marginata shows intermediate performance with adaptability to degraded soils. These interspecific differences highlight the importance of combining species with complementary traits to enhance restoration efficiency in the Atlantic Forest.

Abstract in English:

Abstract We evaluated the composition and vertical distribution of epiphytic orchids in floodplain forests under intensive management for açaí production at the mouth of the Tocantins River, in the Brazilian Amazon. All host trees with a diameter at breast height ≥ 10 cm were sampled within a one-hectare area. We recorded 316 individuals of epiphytic orchids, belonging to 13 species and 12 genera. The most abundant species were Lockhartia imbricata (88 individuals) and Dimerandra emarginata (74). Seventeen trees from five families, eight genera, and eight species served as structural support for orchids. Hevea brasiliensis was the main host tree, with eight individuals supporting an average of 16 individual orchids each. The crown had the greatest number and abundance of orchid species, and 54% of the species occurred exclusively in this stratum. Our results are important for understanding the ecology of orchids inhabiting floodplain forests at river mouths impacted by anthropogenic activities.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Dinizia excelsa Ducke and Hymenolobium excelsum Ducke are economically important species in the Legal Amazon, widely exploited for construction, shipbuilding, and rustic furniture, making them vulnerable to illegal extraction and extinction. This study aimed to map and predict the distribution of these species, assess their future environmental adaptations through ecological niche modeling, and identify priority areas for genetic conservation and sustainable use. Modeling was based on 19 bioclimatic variables, 14 soil properties, and four algorithms. Current distribution considered the reference period (2009-2019), while projections were evaluated under two climate scenarios (SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5) for 2041-2060, 2061-2080, and 2081-2100. Results showed similar dispersion patterns, with reductions in suitable areas across most states, except Acre, where H. excelsum suitability increased. Overall, D. excelsa proved more sensitive to climatic variations. The modeling highlighted vulnerable areas and provided essential guidance for targeted conservation strategies under climate change scenarios.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Eucalyptus plays a key role in Brazil’s forest sector, yet studies in northeastern Brazil remain scarce, particularly on stand volume estimation. This study evaluated different integration levels between unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) data and traditional forest inventory (TFI) in a 10-year-old Eucalyptus spp. stand in Palmeira do Piauí, Brazil. Twelve plots were sampled, and UAV-RGB imagery was used to generate an orthomosaic and canopy height model. Diameter-height models were fitted using ordinary least squares and linear mixed-effects (LME). UAV-derived tree heights matched TFI measurements, with a difference of 0.9 m. Automated tree detection underestimated tree density, indicating that improvements in detection algorithms are required under the evaluated canopy conditions. Combining LME-based diameter model with visually interpreted tree counts, UAV-derived stand volume estimates (63.5-75.6 m³ ha⁻¹) were statistically equivalent to TFI (79.3 m³ ha⁻¹). These findings support use of low-cost UAV-RGB data with LME modeling for reliable stand volume estimation.

Abstract in English:

Abstract This study explores the propagation of Frangula sphaerosperma, a species relevant for ecological restoration, by characterizing its seed and biometric traits (length, width, and shape indices) and evaluating germination at 20, 25, 30 and 35 °C. Germination percentage, germination speed index, average germination time, and seedling normality (defined by the presence of essential structures, such as well-formed roots and expanded leaves) were assessed. Seed traits were obtained using image-based measurements with ImageJ®. Seeds showed low moisture content (10.8%) and were classified as small and circular, with a thousand-seed weight of 20.04 g, corresponding to 49,888 seeds kg-1. Germination was similar between 20 and 30 °C (27.3- 33.8%); however, 25 °C optimized seedling quality, providing the highest percentage of normal seedlings (12%) and the shortest average germination time (11 days). Temperatures above 30 °C reduced germination and seedling formation, indicating sensitivity to heat stress and supporting nursery production at 25 °C.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Accurate stem volume prediction is essential for sustainable management of planted forests in ecologically sensitive regions. This study aimed to evaluate and compare Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) and classical volume models for predicting stem volume of Eucalyptus spp. in an unmanaged stand within the Cerrado–Caatinga ecotone of the Jalapão region, Brazil. A dataset of 134 felled trees, with volumes obtained by the Smalian method, was used to train three ANN architectures (14–3–1) and fit eight classical models. Classical models produced the most accurate predictions, particularly Näslund (R² = 0.93) and Polynomial (R² = 0.93). Among ANNs, ANN 3 achieved the highest performance (R² = 0.90). Paired t-tests showed ANN 1 was statistically equivalent to Näslund and Polynomial, confirming a small practical performance gap. Both approaches are complementary; model selection should consider data availability, interpretability, and management objectives.

Abstract in English:

Abstract The increasing availability of organic residues from agricultural and industrial activities in southern Tocantins has led to their increased use in substrate formulations for forest seedling production. This study evaluated the effect of different substrates and propagation methods on the quality of Corymbia citriodora seedlings. The experiment was conducted in a nursery using a randomized-block design with four blocks, ten substrate treatments, and two propagation methods (transplanting and direct seeding). The substrates consisted of bird litter, rice husk charcoal, boiler ash, and slaughterhouse residue, a typical Cerrado Plintossolo, and a commercial substrate. The treatment composed of 40 % soil, 30 % slaughterhouse residue and 30 % bird litter yielded the best seedling growth and quality. It is concluded that animal-origin organic compounds are the most suitable for alternative substrate formulation for Corymbia citriodora seedling production under Cerrado conditions.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Eucalyptus species are widely used in Indonesia’s industrial plantations due to rapid growth and adaptability, yet productivity varies with soil and topography. This study evaluated the influence of soil physical and chemical properties on the growth and wood yield of Eucalyptus pellita and E. grandis × E. pellita clones across land types in East Kalimantan. Data were collected from 30-month-old stands using 12,000 systematic circular plots. Soil parameters (clay content, C-organic, P-Bray, Ca), slope gradient, and soil depth were analyzed. Interpolation (IDW), Variance Component Analysis, and binary logistic regression identified dominant factors. Results showed slope and soil depth significantly affected growth and wood volume, with E. pellita was more sensitive than E. grandis × E. pellita clone. Optimal productivity occurred on deep soils (>90 cm), moderate slopes (<15%), and moderate clay levels (20-30%) with adequate Ca. The study highlights key edaphic and topographic factors influencing effective clone-site matching.

Abstract in English:

Abstract The Maputo National Park (MNP) is an endemic area of the eastern Mozambique, featuring rare southern African habitats and coastal dune forest remnants. We aimed to understand the structure and species composition of a coastal dune forest in the MNP and assess the relationship between environmental variables and vegetation. We installed 20 500-m2 plots in the forest, sampling plants with a DBH > 2.5 cm and measuring environmental variables. We sampled 2,524 individuals from 89 species. The most abundant species were Drypetes natalensis, Diospyros inhacaensis and Vepris lanceolata. Results showed differences in species distribution, forming floristically distinct groups. We found no significant relationship between the tree community and the evaluated environmental variables, suggesting species adaptability to high environmental heterogeneity, marked by low water availability and few nutrients. This study highlights the importance of understanding coastal vegetation for conservation and management on the east and southeast coast of Africa.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Every forest carries in its structure traces of exploitation and resilience, but how interpret this narrative? This study investigated whether different disturbance histories lead to distinct functional strategies in fragments of Mixed Ombrophilous Forest. We analyzed specific leaf area, leaf dry matter content, wood density, diameter at breast height, biomass, and carbon using community-weighted means, multivariate and statistical analyses. Conserved fragments showed significantly higher diameter, biomass, and carbon stocks (t-test, p < 0.05), indicating conservative strategies, whereas selectively logged fragments exhibited higher wood density and leaf dry matter content (t-test, p < 0.05), revealing unexpected patterns. Pearson correlations were stronger and more homogeneous in conserved fragments, while selectively logged forests displayed more variable association patterns among functional attributes. These findings suggest that selectively logged forests may follow distinct functional trajectories shaped by logging legacies and regeneration processes, highlighting the value of functional traits for understanding forest recovery and ecosystem dynamics.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Reducing the consumption of single-use plastics is becoming reality in today’s society. More than 300 million tons of plastic waste are generated annually globally, with a significant portion coming from disposable food packaging. The development of sustainable paper-based packaging coated with biopolymers has gained prominence in the packaging sector due to its biodegradability, non-toxicity and biocompatibility properties. These materials offer additional advantages, such as resistance to moisture and oxidation, which increases the durability of packaged food products. Improving the knowledge and their applications are essential to ensure the sustainability of production processes and meet growing environmental and economic demands. However, ongoing research is needed to overcome challenges such as production scalability and the high cost of some biopolymers in order to ensure their viability on a large scale. Additionally, it has the potential to stimulate innovation in the packaging industry, offering solutions that align sustainability and competitiveness in the market.

Abstract in English:

Abstract Available species-specific allometric aboveground biomass (AGB) models for tree ferns occurring in the Atlantic forest are based on small calibration datasets, potentially leading to increased uncertainty in model parameter estimates. This study constructed common AGB models for Cyathea delgadii Sternb. and Dicksonia sellowiana Hook. using data from 75 individuals destructively sampled in the subtropical Atlantic forest. Three power-law models linking AGB to a single compound variable were calibrated. Incorporating a species effect into the scaling parameter through a dummy variable substantially improved prediction accuracy. Nonetheless, incorporating a species effect into the allometric - exponent resulted in weak parameter identifiability, suggesting that the two species can share a common allometric exponent. The selected AGB model achieved prediction accuracy comparable to available species-specific models, albeit with smaller uncertainty in model parameter estimates. Pooling data from species with similar allometric relationships was shown to be an efficient strategy for improving AGB models.