Natural regeneration and environmental relationships of tree species in logging gaps in a Bolivian tropical forest

Some pioneers (Acacia polyphylla, Urera baccifera, Heliocarpus americana, Cecropia concolor, and Inga edulis) were associated with large gaps or coarse soils with high herbaceous cover. Among commercial trees, Ampelocera ruizii, Hura crepitans, and Pseudolmedia laevis were associated with fine textured soils, while Pouteria nemorosa was associated with high fern cover and rock outcrops. Although most logging gaps were dominated by a few pioneer species, the commercial species A. ruizii, H. crepitans, P. nemorosa, and Terminalia oblonga may eventually dominate many gaps. Notably absent among gap regeneration were some of the most commercially valuable tree species, such as Swietenia macrophylla, Cedrela fissilis, Cariniana ianeirensis, and Ficus boliviana. Outplanting programs may be needed to ensure successful regeneration of these rare but valuable species.