Biomass and nutrients in three species of Parkia plantings on degraded area in Central Amazon

Abstract

Biomass and nutrients partitioning strategies in tree species may reflect their ability to survive in plantations on degraded areas. The objective of this study was to investigate the content of biomass and nutrients in tree components of Parkia multijuga, Parkia nitida and Parkia pendula on plantings in degraded area in Manaus, AM. The biomass was determined by the harvest method in six trees of each species, which were subdivided into leaves, fine branches (Ø < 10 cm), coarse branches (Ø ≥10 cm), stem wood, medium roots (≤ 2 mm Ø < 5 cm) and coarse roots (Ø ≥ 5 cm). At 4 years, Parkia multijuga allocated 60% of the total biomass to above-ground components and 40% to below-ground. Parkia nitida allocated 84% to above-ground and 16% to below-ground. Parkia pendula allocated 67% to above-ground components and 33% to below-ground. The order of the nutrient accumulation in tree compartments was: N > Ca > K > Mg > P. Parkia multijuga, by adopting better strategies of distribution of biomass and nutrients, it is a recommended species for reforestation programs on degraded sites in the Amazon.