WOOD AND NON-WOOD PRODUCTS OF THREE SPECIES OF SOUTHEAST MEXICO

Abstract

Forest ecosystems do not only represent beautiful scenery, but they also provide goods and services that are lost with deforestation. The aim of this study was to identify the diversity of use, ecological distribution and phenology of Brosimum alicastrum, Metopium brownei and Piscidia piscipula at southeast Mexico. A data analysis of the National Soil and Forest Inventory was made, in addition to bibliographic reviews, a review of samples from three national herbaria and field trips in some ejidos of Campeche and Quintana Roo states. Results showed the presence of three species in the humid tropic and in the dry tropic, in high tropical forests, medium subevergreen, subdeciduos and low deciduos forests; the inventory showed the presence of P. piscipula in 2 218 conglomerates and 27 750 individuals; M. brownei in 1 586, with 14 482 plants and B. alicastrum in 958, with 5 770. Woody uses include lumber, handicrafts and rural buildings. Non-wood products of B. alicastrum and P. piscipula are used as forage for domestic animals and wildlife, as well as traditional medicine, ornaments and apiculture. Phenology varies according to the type of vegetation: M. brownei andP.piscipulaaredeciduousinthedryseason;floweringoccursfromJanuarytoMay;fructificationstartsinAprilforthethreetaxa. Itisconcluded that from its ecological distribution, abundance and use diversity, the studied species are a valuable resource for rural communities.