Ecologia histórica e associação da castanheira-da-amazônia com Terra Preta de Índio – mais evidências da origem antrópica dos castanhais no Sul do Amapá

Abstract

Amazon nut tree is a tree species considered symbol of the Amazon, standing out in the forest by the high height and long cycle of life. Currently, despite being considered vulnerable by the threat of deforestation, it has also been contacted that its dispersion and establishment can be favored by anthropic activity. Recent works have shown that where there is a greater presence of agroextrativists, there has also been a greater regeneration of Brazil nut trees, especially in anthropic areas at the beginning of succession. Naturally, this species has its dispersion carried out by the agouti (Dasyprocta sp), which carries more fruits and seeds of Brazil nuts to areas of fields and capoeira. This pattern probably also happened in the plantations cultivated by natives and caboclos, for centuries and decades past. Because the Brazil nut is an important source of food, it has always been part of the life of ancient peoples who inhabited the region and may have contributed to its establishment, as evidenced by the constant association of Brazil nut trees with black Indian land (TPI) and mulata land. This study shows that the aggregate chestnuts that occur in southern Amapá are associated with their anthropic origin. With the analyzes of the growth rates of the species, we confirm the relation of the age of the Brazil nut trees with the historical patterns of occupation of the area. The aggregate occurrence of Brazil nuts, as well as their size and shape, are also evidence of origin from areas with shifting cultivation. With the growth rates of 1 cm / year, we confirm the relation of the age of present Brazil nut trees stands with historical patterns of occupancy of Amapá and anthropic origin involuntary. These Brazil nut tree stands, in the eastern Amazon, have a higher density and aggregation, differentiated structure and greater association with TPI and mulata land than in western Amazonas