Phytosociological dynamics of woody vegetation in silvopastoral systems of the caatinga with controlled resprout management of jurema-preta (Mimosa tenuiflora)

The Caatinga biome, a predominant vegetation type in the Brazilian semi-arid region, is characterized by a rich diversity of woody species that face significant pressures from human activities, including deforestation and overgrazing. Silvopastoral systems have emerged as a potential strategy to reconcile agricultural production with biodiversity conservation. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of phytosociological parameters on woody vegetation in silvopastoral areas with controlled regrowth of jurema-preta (Mimosa tenuiflora (Willd.) Poir.) at Lameirão Farm, Santa Terezinha, PB, Brazil. A 4-ha experimental area was divided into four paddocks, with assessments conducted at the end of 2017 and 2018. Parameters analyzed included frequency, density, Shannon–Wiener diversity index, and Pielou’s evenness index for woody species. Over two years, control of Jurema-preta regrowth showed no direct impact on the presence of other woody species in the Caatinga; however, the overall number of individuals of these species increased in all areas studied. A total of 640 individuals, encompassing seven endemic species, were recorded. Evenness values (J) for 2017 and 2018 ranged as follows: 0.81, 0.83, 0.76, and 0.84 for the control treatment and 0.86, 0.82, 0.85, and 0.81 for treatments with 1, 2, and 3 regrowth, respectively. These findings suggest that these species can be effectively integrated into silvopastoral systems, although further research is needed to determine optimal management practices that ensure biodiversity preservation and sustainable population levels.