Português

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the success of the restoration of a riparian forest section of the Pandeiros River (Januária, MG) ten years after implementation. Methodology: Different restoration models were implemented in the area, using sapling planting (spacing 2 m × 2 m and 2 m × 4 m) with and without direct seeding. Natural regeneration was evaluated in four 1-hectare areas. In each area, 12 plots of 4 m² were allocated in two transects, with six plots near remnant vegetation and six near pasture (zones). In these plots, individual woody species were sampled and categorized (regeneration and dispersal guilds), and litter and soil samples (0-5 cm) were collected to evaluate the seed bank. Results: In the plots, 60 individuals from seven families, 13 genera, 14 species, and three morphotypes were sampled, and 3,297 seedlings emerged from the seed bank samples, distributed across 23 species, 23 genera, 18 families, and six morphotypes. Greater species richness was observed in the regeneration stratum in the plots near the forest, and for the seed bank, greater richness was found in the soil stratum. Differences in species composition were noted both between zones and between seed bank strata. Conclusion: Regeneration is occurring and is influenced by the proximity to the colonization source, but the restoration process is slow and shows significant influence from past and current disturbances in the area.