The effects of harvest on the population structure of Astrocaryum mexicanum and its potential for understory cultivation

Abstract

Astrocaryum mexicanum is a native, understory palm of the tropical rainforests of the Sierra Santa Marta in southeastern Mexico. Local residents have traditionally harvested A. mexicanum, relying on its edible inflorescences as a food source as well as a trade commodity. Harvest pressure has increased drastically in recent years as a result of expansion of the local market, as well as habitat loss due to deforestation. This study assessed the current harvest intensity of A. mexicanum inflorescences and evaluated its effects on population structure. Seedling growth and inflorescence production were compared in the continuum of light conditions of forest environments subject to different management practices. We found that the structure of A. mexicanum populations subject to harvest differed significantly from that of unharvested populations. Seedling growth and inflorescence production were greater in the higher light environments. As a result of this study, A. mexicanum is recommended for understory cultivation in the secondary forests that are prevalent throughout the region.