Biodiversity loss in protected areas of São Paulo State and ecological restoration practices

Abstract

This project aims to evaluate and better understand likely biodiversity loss of native flora subjected to two strong degradation vectors - biological invasions and woody encroachment throughout the the Cerrado biome - as well as develop techniques for restoring and conserving native communities to support policies and practices for the management of biodiversity in protected areas (PAs) in São Paulo state. The studies will be conducted in the Ecological Station of Santa Maria (EESM) and Gleba Cerrado Pé-de-Gigante, part of Vassununga State Park (PEV). The results will provide subsidies for the ecological management and restoration of PAs in São Paulo state that, as well as the PEV and the EESM, have been facing serious problems of biological invasion and woody encroachment. Still, we will have the opportunity to repeat the sampling of the herbaceous flora of the Cerrado Pé-de-Gigante (PEV) after 22 years, and verify its effective change. Such long-term comparisons, especially of the herbaceous community, are very rare. Among the main results we highlight the cooperative work between PA managers and scientific researchers towards a common goal of finding alternatives for the maintenance and protection of biodiversity and ecological processes in the PAs, bringing scientific research closer to ecological management and biodiversity restoration. In addition, the project aims to take ecological knowledge to the local school community, as well as to the public living around the PEV and EESM. Seminars and workshops will be organized during the project implementation, to evaluate results, adapt methodology, select management alternatives and discuss relevant issues. (AU)