Efficiency of Biological Utilization of Micronutrients by Forests Species in Hypoxerophytic Caatinga

Abstract

ABSTRACT The study aimed to estimate the concentrations and efficiency of biological utilization of Cu, Fe, Zn, and Mn and the leaf biomass of ten species in a hypoxerophytic Caatinga fragment, aiming to contribute to a more adequate choice of species for reforestation programs in the Brazilian Caatinga. The leaves of three trees of each species were sampled and the concentration of micronutrients was determined, estimating their content and efficiency of biological utilization. The efficiency of biological utilization followed the decreasing order: Mn > Cu > Zn > Fe. Jatropha mollissima and Spondias tuberosa were less efficient in the use of Fe and Senegalia paniculata and Croton blanchetianus, in the use of Zn. However, Piptadenia stipulacea and Mimosa ophthalmocentra were very efficient in using Fe and Mn. The nutritional efficiency of the species can serve as a criterion for choice of species in forest restoration programs.

Keywords

• forest nutrition
• leaf biomass
• nutrient concentrations
• nutritional efficiency