Estrutura arbórea e efeito de borda em três fragmentos de Cerrado

Abstract

Understanding how tree vegetation responds to fragmentation is essential for assessing the conservation status of the Cerrado. In this study, we analyzed structural attributes of tree species in three fragments located in the municipality of Três Lagoas, Mato Grosso do Sul. Permanent plots were sampled at the edge and inside each fragment, where individuals with DBH ≥ 5 cm had their diameter at breast height (DBH), total height, stem height, and crown radius measured. The variables were analyzed using factorial ANOVA, considering the effects of fragment, position (edge/interior), and interaction. It was observed that the edge effect is present, but manifests itself differently among the fragments, reflecting environmental and historical land use differences. More preserved areas exhibited greater structural variability, while more disturbed fragments presented lower values ​​for most attributes. The results highlight the heterogeneous nature of edge effects in the Cerrado and reinforce the importance of the local context in the interpretation of structural patterns and in the formulation of conservation strategies.