Characterization of the structure and phenology of four tree species of the Low Deciduous Forest in Tepalcingo Morelos Characterization, structure and phenology of tree species of the Selva Baja Caducifolia in Morelos

Abstract

Objective: Determine structural and phenological characteristics of four important tree species in the Low Deciduous Forest

Design/Methodology/Approach:

To determine the structure, trees ≥ 10 cm in diameter at a height of 1.30 m were censused in 30 sites of 500 m². For phenology, seven sites were selected. The phenological states evaluated were: rest, vegetative, flowering, fruiting and seeding.

Results: 405 individuals were found, belonging to the four species under study Copal ancho (Bursera copallifera (Sessé & Moc.) ex DC. Bullock), Palo dulce (Eysenhardtia polystachya (Ortega) Sarg.,) Tecolhuixtle (Mimosa benthamii (J.F. Macbr. var. benthamii)), Tepemezquite (Lysiloma divaricatum (Jacq.) Macbride), regarding the Relative Importance Value Index, Tepemezquite ranked first, in the phenological aspects observed, three species lost foliage at some time of the year. Only Tecolhuixtle presented it continuously.

Limitations on study/implications: The results and conclusions are limited to the sample used in the present study. Since data was only taken from individuals with DAP ≥ 10 cm, but they can be extrapolating exercising care

Findings/conclusions: The structural and phenological aspects of the four woody species, in the Ejido El Limón, confirm that they are similar to what has been described for this type of vegetation in other locations in Mexico.