Vertical structure of agroforestry systems in Rolim de Moura, Rondonia Forest Zone

Abstract

Agroforestry systems (AFS) are land use and management systems that associate tree species
with croplands and/or animals, combining conservation of natural resources with agricultural
production. The study of vertical stratification is fundamental to assess performance and
indicate management practices. In this sense, this study aimed to analyze the vertical structure
of two agroforestry systems in Rolim de Moura, Rondonia Forest Zone. Therefore, it was carried
out the stratification of the tree component into three strata and then the values for density,
frequency and basal area were calculated. In the two agroecosystems, the medium stratum
showed the highest values for density and basal area. Cupuaçu tree (Theobroma grandiflorum)
was the species with highest densities in the medium and lower strata, whereas the rubber tree
predominated in the upper stratum.