Análise da chuva polínica no refúgio de vida silvestre dos Campos de Palmas - Paraná, Brasil

Abstract

Palynology, as a scientific tool, enables the understanding of vegetation dynamics in both the present and the past, providing crucial information about the composition and distribution of plant species in different ecosystems. Using palynological techniques, the present study aimed to analyze the pollen rain found in surface samples from the Campos de Palmas Wildlife Refuge, located in the state of Paraná, Brazil.To achieve this objective, soil samples were collected from different vegetation covers at five strategic points within the Conservation Unit: sample 1 was collected from a grassland area on a high slope; sample 2 from a transition area between grassland and forest; sample 3 inside the forest; sample 4 at the edge of the lagoon; and sample 5 from a grassland area on a low slope. The analysis of the samples sought to identify the pollen grains and spores present in the local atmosphere, which had been deposited in the soil, evaluating both the predominant palynological typology and its representativeness in the environment.The study results demonstrated the presence, albeit in smaller quantities, of species from Mixed Ombrophilous Forest areas, but with a predominance of taxa from species in grassland areas. This finding aligns with the conservation goals for which this unit was created. Furthermore, these results will contribute to strengthening the role of the Campos de Palmas Wildlife Refuge in preserving grassland ecosystems, as the pollen rain reflects the predominance of specific taxa associated with these formations.The use of palynology in this context not only provides a detailed perspective on the ecological processes occurring in the Refuge but also offers valuable insights for developing management and conservation strategies.