Resumo

REYES REYES, Jorge et al. Diversity and structure of shadow trees associated with Coffea arabica L. in Soconusco, Chiapas. Rev. mex. de cienc. forestales [online]. 2022, vol.13, n.71, pp.4-27.  Epub 22-Ago-2022. ISSN 2007-1132.  https://doi.org/10.29298/rmcf.v13i71.1191.

The traditional systems in the coffee (Coffea Arabica) producing areas develop in shady ecosystems with a wide diversity of flora and fauna species. At present, the original floristic composition has been modified by changes in the establishment of a species Inga spp. Therefore, the importance of knowing the diversity and current tree structure of the agroforestry system in coffee cultivation in Soconusco, state of Chiapas arises. For this aim, 10 sampling units (SU) were randomly established in the middle region of Soconusco Chiapas, with dimensions of 1 000 m2 (20 m x 50 m). Variables were recorded to identify their vertical and horizontal stratification, and importance value indexes (IVI), tree species diversity, Shannon-Wiener and Simpson were calculated. 23 tree species were found out of a population of 279 trees and the plantations with the highest chronological age present greater diversity and tree structure. The observed vegetation presents the lower strata ranging from <9 m and upper > 18 m. The species with the greatest presence in the SUs were Tabebuia donnell smithii, Inga micheliana, Cordia alliodora and Cedrela odorata and, according to the Simpson and Shannon diversity indexes, the vegetation that prevails has little tree species diversity. The highest importance value index came from Tabebuia donnell smithii and Inga micheliana.

Palavras-chave : Shadow trees; biodiversity; structure; diversity indices; Inga spp.; agroforestry systems.