Structure of the tree component of one riparian forest in the Coastal Plain of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

In this study we evaluated the floristic composition and phytosociological structure of the riparian forest from the Bolaxa stream, located in Rio Grande City, southern Brazil. We sampled 60 points, which were distributed along transects parallel to the stream. The floristic survey recorded the occurrence of 31 tree species, of which 26 were included in the phytosociological survey. The estimated total density was of 1794 ind.ha(-1) and the more important species were Allophylus edulis (A. St. Hil., Cambess. & A. Juss.) Radlk, Erythrina crista-galli L., Ficus cestrifolia Schott and Guapira opposita (Vell.) Reitz. Tree heights were between 3 to 12 meters. Species diversity was estimated by the Shannon index and was equal 2,579 (nats.ind.(-1)) and Pielou's equability equal to 0,791. The results of this study will support the maintenance and conservation these kinds of forests in the Green Lagoon's protection area.