Germination and initial development of Dipteryx alata Vogel (Fabaceae) in two “Cerrado” areas: a step toward its use in reforestation programs

This study aimed at studying the germination, survival and initial development of Dipteryx alata Vogel in an area of a typical “cerrado” (TC) and in a transition area between typical “cerrado” and a gallery forest (CF) at the Lajeado State Park in Tocantins, Brazil. Seeds were directly sown in the two areas. Germination was analyzed at 30 days after sowing (DAS) and survival rates, measurements of plant height, stem diameter and leaf number 360 DAS. In order to verify possible structural changes in the individuals, anatomical analyses were carried out. The plant material was fixed, sectioned, stained and evaluated by means of light microscopy techniques. Histochemical analyses were also conducted. Dipteryx alata germination was not influenced by the conditions of the two study areas. The anatomical traits revealed a more developed xylem, a greater thickness of gelatinous fibers in the leaves as well as the presence of a larger amount of secondary metabolites in the plants grown at TC. These characteristics associated with an increase in leaf number and stem diameter granted a better survival rate in this area. Great differences in the overall initial development of D. alata were not observed between the studied areas. Based on these results it is possible to affirm that although this species is considered an initial intermediate species, it clearly exhibits phenotypical plasticity and can potentially be used in reforestation programs of areas with high solar radiation and less water availability as well as of areas where water and shade are more readily available.