EDGE INFLUENCE OVER FUNCTIONAL TREE TRAITS IN AN ATLANTIC FOREST REMNANT

ABSTRACT Habitat fragmentation is one of the leading causes edge genesis and its effects. Functional tree traits such as wood density, height, diameter are essential variables from which it possible to infer several ecological processes. This study assessed variability functional trees over two habitats (edge interior) a forest remnant. The hypothesis tested were i) would have lower values at edges than interior, ii) environmental influence differences. was carried out in largest Atlantic Forest remnant within Serra da Tiririca State Park, Brazil, by establishing ten plots (50 × 20 m) among different habitats. Within each plot, samples taken all with ≥ 10 cm. It recorded altitude, distance edge, fire records explanatory (environmental variables). Wood density obtained using immersion method. To verify differences habitat, Wilcoxon test applied. Additionally, on through generalized linear models evaluated. One hundred eighty-five 218 interior height significantly interior. Furthermore, best indicated significant relationships between habitats, well edge. effective raising suitable predict