Seed development, yield and quality of two palm species growing in different tropical forest types in SE Brazil: implications for ecological restoration

Background

Natural forest remnants have been set as seed production fields to supply seeds of native tree species for tropical forest restoration, but the effect of different forest types on seed production has not been accessed to date for palm species. This study reports on seed development, yield, and quality of two palm species in different tropical forest types in SE Brazil.

Research goals & methods

Palmiteiro (Euterpe edulis) and queen-palm (Syagrus romanzoffiana) are widely used in restoration efforts due to their importance for vertebrate frugivores. Seed production of individuals of these species were studied in natural remnants of Atlantic Rainforest, Restinga Forest, Seasonally Dry Forest, and Cerrado Forest. The authors studied seed development, yield, size, and germination of seed lots harvested in 2008 and 2009 across these forest types. Seed yield, quality, and dry mass were higher for palmiteiro seeds produced in the Atlantic Rainforest, while queen-palm seeds produced at the Restinga Forest showed higher mass and yield, but the lowest physiological potential.

Conclusions & takeaways

Natural differences in seed yield and quality should be taken into account for establishing standards for seed commercialization and analysis, seed pricing, and seedling production in forest nurseries.