Resumo

ALBUQUERQUE, Lidiamar B. et al. Melastomataceae Juss. species with potential use in ecological restoration of gallery riparian vegetation of cerrado/savanna. Polibotánica [online]. 2013, n.35, pp.1-19. ISSN 1405-2768.

Melastomataceae Juss. is the sixth family in importance in the Cerrado biome, being common in secondary vegetation. The species of this family presents life strategies and adaptations include adaptations such as large seed production, efficient seed dispersal, high germination rates and rapid growth that can provide the activation of ecological processes involved in the natural regeneration of disturbed habitats. The objective was to characterize the Melastomataceae species in secondary vegetation and to assess their potential for use in ecological restoration of degraded riparian forests. This study was conducted in the experimental area of Embrapa Cerrados, near to the river Sarandi, Distrito Federal, Brazil, in an area of one hectare. In this area were placed plots and transects for evaluation of parameters: botanical and ecological characteristics, pollination and seed dispersal syndromes, vegetative reproduction, species richness and abundance, coverage, fruiting and flowering. From of these parameters was assessed the potential use of the species in ecological restoration. Among the 14 species of the Melastomataceae recorded Miconia chamissois Naud. (35.42% and 42.53%), Ossaea congestiflora (Naud.) Cong. (23.6% and 13.29%), Macairea radula DC (19.66% and 17.22%) and Tococa formicaria Mart. (6.78% and 3.87%), presents greater abundance and coverage, respectively. According to the ability to supply of food resources throughout the year and other features was recommended these species for use in restoration ecology (high potential of restorability): Miconia chamissois, Miconia albicans, Miconia ibaguensis, Miconia theaezans and Tococa formicaria. These species offer pollen, seeds and fruits, attracting wildlife and accelerate the process of ecological restoration through maximization of biological interactions.

Palavras-chave : pollinators; seed dispersal; attraction of wildlife; restorability and Miconia.