Local knowledge, exploitation and population status of Terminalia glabrescens Mart. in the Northeast of Brazil

Terminalia glabrescens Mart. is a native tree widely exploited in Northeastern Brazil, particularly known for its medicinal and timber properties. Although it is frequently harvested, the consequences of extractive practices have not been assessed; therefore, this study examined the uses and influences of extractivism on the species population status. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 86 participants, who mentioned 27 different uses across six categories: medicinal, utensils, construction, fuel, food, and fodder. Three plots of 50 × 50 m were demarcated, where individuals were identified, measured for diameter, and their height. The study indicated a preference for collecting trees of tall and intermediate size and thickness, which are considered ideal and versatile for various uses. An association was found between the forms of use and the gender of the participants, with men having more citations in all use categories, particularly in the timber context. It was observed that the population of the species did not fit the "inverted J" model, suggesting that extractivism may primarily affect trees in intermediate size classes. Although this study does not directly assess levels of exploitation, the results may be attributed mainly to timber exploitation.