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Mapping the density of giant trees in the Amazon
Robson Borges de Lima1, Diego Armando Silva da Silva2, Matheus Henrique Nunes3
1Laboratório de Manejo Florestal, Universidade do Estado do Amapá, 68901-262, Macapá, AP, Brazil.
The New Phytologist
|October 14, 2025
Summary
Tall trees significantly impact tropical forests but their distribution is unknown. This study models tall tree density across the Brazilian Amazon, revealing crucial insights for conservation and climate strategies.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Forest Science
- Remote Sensing
Background:
- Tall trees (≥60m) are vital for tropical forest biodiversity, carbon storage, and resilience.
- Accurate quantification of tall tree density and distribution is lacking, especially in remote Amazonian areas.
- This knowledge gap hinders understanding of ecological roles and forest-climate interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To model the density and spatial distribution of tall trees in the Brazilian Amazon.
- To identify environmental factors influencing tall tree distribution.
- To improve biomass estimation and inform conservation strategies.
Main Methods:
- Airborne LiDAR data from 900 transects across the Brazilian Amazon were utilized.
- Environmental predictors (climate, topography, disturbance) were integrated into a predictive model.
- Spatial extrapolations were performed to generate regional distribution estimates.
Main Results:
- Tall tree density is unevenly distributed, with significant concentrations in specific regions.
- Highest densities were observed in Roraima and the Guiana Shield, linked to high water availability and low storm incidence.
- A strong correlation was found between modeled tall tree density and aboveground biomass.
Conclusions:
- An estimated 55.5 million tall trees exist in the Brazilian Amazon.
- Tall tree distribution is a critical, underutilized predictor for biomass models.
- Understanding tall tree dynamics is essential for effective forest conservation and climate resilience planning.
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