Numerical characterization of forest diversity of 14 rural communities in five municipalities in Nicaragua

Abstract

The forests are important for rural communities and the country, so it is necessary to identify species and determine their status, rational, and establish conservation policies in their habitats. The information was collected through questionnaires during the period 2013-2015, identified forest species in 14 rural communities in Nicaragua in the municipalities of Las Sabanas, Nandaime, Somotillo, Villanueva and El Crucero. The sample consisted of 604 UFP (3677 records) and analysis were used (ANOVA, LSD) and multivariate (correspondence analysis, principal components and cluster) in the comparison of UFP integrating taxonomic classification and use of trees. Were used basic indices of floristic diversity (Margalef, Shannon- Wiener, Simpson and Berguer-Parker). According to the fi ndings, agriculture is subsistence and families benefit from species. Multivariate tools and diversity indices were useful for comparing plant communities and their wealth. They noted 84 species of trees, grouped in 66 genera and 38 families