Abstract

RUBIO-CAMACHO, Ernesto A. et al. Analysis of the structure and diameter distribution in temperate forests under the perspective of the potential fire regime. Rev. Chapingo ser. cienc. for. ambient [online]. 2015, vol.21, n.3, pp.281-294. ISSN 2007-4018.  https://doi.org/10.5154/r.rchscfa.2014.10.053.

The ecological role of fires in ecosystems can be studied through the fire regime. The objective of the study was to evaluate the structure and species composition in an area with a potential regime of frequent and low severity fires under two frequency scenarios in Iturbide, Nuevo León. Two 1-hectare parcels were established with different fuel loads (P1 = smaller load, P2 = larger load); the diameter, size, and coverage of the smaller and larger species were recorded. The forest mensuration variables were analyzed in order to obtain knowledge of the species composition of the forest. In the larger woodland, the Pinus group dominates in both parcels; this species has higher density and coverage values in P1, unlike the Quercus group and Others group (broadleaved). In the smaller woodland, all groups showed higher coverage values in P1, indicating active regeneration in the area with a shorter fire absence period. The diameter distributions were adjusted to the Weibull distribution and reflected the fire regime. It is therefore advised to implement a program for the integral management of fires that encompasses the beneficial effects of the fires.

Keywords : Weibull distribution; succession dynamics; Northeastern Mexico; Pinus pseudostrobus.

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