Inventory of non-timber forest products (NTFP) from a semi-humid forest in the south of Manabi, Ecuador

Abstract

In order to carry out an inventory of non-timber forest products (NTFP) from a sub-humid forest in the south of Manabí, Ecuador, two main plots of 20 x 20 m were established, where the diameter at the height of the chest (DAP), commercial height, total height, basal area, horizontal structure and vertical structure. The crown was measured in NTFPs with diameters greater than 7.5 cm. In the interior of the main plots, five sub-plots of 10 x 10 m were drawn, in which the NTFPs with diameters greater than 2.5 cm and smaller than 7.5 cm were measured. At each vertex of the central sub-plot, batches of 2 x 2 m were established, in which the NWFPs less than 2.5 cm in diameter were measured. To identify NTFPs, community members living near the forest were surveyed. In the established plots, 21 samplings were carried out. The results showed that in the main plot there were 28 families, 34 genera, 35 species and 278 individuals. In the subplots 28 families were found, 32 genera, 43 species and 215 individuals. In the 2 x 2 m lots, 26 families, 39 genera, 41 species and 331 individuals were found. The families Boraginaceae, Fabaceae and Mimosaceae were the most abundant. The Shannon diversity index for the main plot was low (1.41) and for the subplot it was medium (2.32). The most used NTFPs were: Guazuma ulmifolia, Albizia guachapele, Machaerium millei, Pythecellobiun arboreum and Annona muricata. Considering that the NTFPs come mostly from the native forest and the species found in the research area were few, but of great importance for medicinal and nutritional use of the communities, it is considered urgent to implement the forest enrichment plan with the species found, which will contribute culturally and economically to the communities neighboring the forest.

Keywords

• non-timber forest products
• commercial height
• diameter
• species
• families
• genera