Caracterização Anatômica da Madeira de Sete Espécies de Couratari Aubl. (Lecythidaceae), ocorrentes na Amazônia Brasileira

Abstract

The species of the genus Couratari Aubl. are widely used in the timber and forestry sector of the Amazon region, they are commonly known as "Tauari" and, because they present very similar anatomical characteristics, they are commonly confused. The wood from these species presents average mechanical properties, with good yield when sawn or sliced, and is used mainly for packaging and furniture manufacture. The fact that several species are grouped under the same name or derivations brings with it the problem of the appropriate use for each species. Thus, the study of the secondary xylem is of utmost importance for the correct utilization of these species. In this context, the present study aims to contribute to the anatomical knowledge of the wood of seven species of the genus Couratari Aubl. The macro and microscopic characterizations followed the traditional methodologies used for wood anatomy studies. The results analyzed so far allowed the distinction of the species Couratari guianensis Aubl., C. macrosperma A.C. Smith, C. multijlora (Smith) Eyma, C. oblongifolia Ducke & Knuth, C. pulchra Sandw., C. stellata A.C. Smith and C. tauari Berg through their structures. From the determination of these results, it is intended to elaborate an identification key and separation of the studied species, and the confection of a scientific article in an indexed journal, discriminating the most appropriate commercial use for each species that facilitated the process of natural regeneration of the arboreal species, followed by the balocory dispersion and the dispersion by the wind.