Litter dynamics in a seasonally dry forest fragment

Litter decomposition makes possible the nutrient cycling and is a link between vegetation soil, vital for healthy forest ecosystem. Although several studies on litter have been carried out in different regions of Brazil, there are few transitional zones Cerrado Caatinga, particularly state Piauí. Therefore, objective this work was to evaluate litterfall production, composition rate tropical dry fragment located southeast region Piauí, Brazil. Monthly dynamics were evaluated one year, by placing traps center six inventory permanent sample plots, determined litterbag technique. Litterfall production estimated at 4,401.7 kg ha-1 year-1, similar Caatinga environment values, with leaves fraction contributing highest percentage (64%). On other hand, 0.003 g day-1, rates found environments, highlighting importance better understand ecozone dynamics. Wind speed had significative correlation production. The number species plot rate, diameter growth dendrometric variable most correlated