Características fisiológicas de duas espécies do bioma amazônico com potencial para reflorestamento: Bixa arbórea Huber e Apuleia leiocarpa

Abstract

The use of native species in reforestation projects has become an effective strategy to promote environmental recovery and biodiversity conservation. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the physiological potential and growth of the species Bixa arbórea Huber (Urucum do Brejo) and Apuleia leiocarpa (Garapeira) during the seedling phase. The experiment was conducted in the greenhouse of the State University of Maranhão (UEMA), in São Luís - MA, under a completely randomized design, with 15 replicates for each species. The following variables were analyzed: height, stem diameter, dry mass of leaves, stems and roots, Dickson quality index (IQD), photosynthetic pigment contents (chlorophyll a, b, total and carotenoids), green index, and physiological parameters of gas exchange (A, gs, E, Ci, EUA and EIC). Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA, followed by Tukey's test at 5% significance. The results indicate that the Annatto of Brejo presented greater biomass accumulation and superior performance in the parameters A, gs, EUA and EIC, reflecting greater photosynthetic efficiency and adaptive potential. On the other hand, the Garapeira stood out for its higher chlorophyll a and carotenoid contents, in addition to presenting a higher IQD value, suggesting a greater balance between shoot and root parts. The data demonstrate that both species have distinct and complementary physiological characteristics, being promising for use in ecological restoration programs, depending on the environmental conditions of the planting site.