Comparison of growth dynamics and wood characteristics of plantation-grownand primary forest Carapa guianensis in Central Amazonia

This study responds to the demand for recultivation of degraded land areas in Central Amazonia and the desire to add long-lived trees for high-quality timber production to polyculture plantation systems. Carapa guianensis Aub l. from two monocultures (ages 4 and 17 years) and a primary forest were st udied. The growth dynamics of the 4-year-old trees revealed 11 to 15 increm ents marked by tangentially oriented vessel rows. By the 5(th) year, parenc hyma bands indicate mature wood. Monthly labelling by pin-markers revealed short dormancy periods during the dry season. The early formation of mature wood is shown by the pattern of percentage composition of vessels, fibres, and parenchyma. Fibre length reaches its plateau of 1.45-1.59 mm at about four years. Fibre lengths and average density (0.63 g/cm(3)) of plantation- grown trees correspond to those of primary forest trees. According to this study, Carapa guianensis can be recommended for plantations in order to pro duce high-quality timber with a decorative heartwood.