Distribution, density and dasometric structure of Haematoxylum campechianum and Haematoxylum calakmulense in Campeche, Mexico

In the Yucatan Peninsula, two species of the genus Haematoxylum grow: Haematoxylum campechianum and Haematoxylum calakmulense. The objective of this study was to evaluate the current status of the populations of both species at different sites in Campeche, Mexico. In order to know the historical and current distribution, published herbarium records, project information, and field expeditions were used. Eight sites with concentrations of individuals of one of the species or the other were selected to measure population density and structure, and 20 plots of 10 x 10 m were established at each site. In the plots, individuals of both species were counted and measured with trunk diameter at chest height (DBH) greater than 1 cm. For each individual the height, DBH and number of branches were recorded. We compared the variables density, height, DBH, number of branches between sites and the absolute frequencies of the size intervals and DBH within each site. Haematoxylum campechianum is widely distributed in the state of Campeche and was located forming seasonally inundated forests and as isolated trees, while H. calakmulense was recorded in interior areas of the state with lower density values than H. campechianum; none of the sites were found forming seasonally inundated forests. For H. calakmulense the highest individuals reached 12 m and for H. campechianum 15 m. Considering the economic potential, each species may be affected by anthropogenic activities that cause their populations to decline in the medium and long term.