Naturalization of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. in the transition region of the Pantanal, Amazon Forest and Cerrado Biomes

Abstract

The species Hibiscus sabdariffa L. is originally from the African continent. It is a bushy species that can reach up to 2 m in height, where due to its various uses, it has spread to different regions of the world, where it acts in an exotic way, and can become a naturalized species. In the city of Cáceres-MT there is a small population of the species in an anthropized area, in which, according to local residents, the plants have been present in the place for several years, even with the occurrence of disturbances in the area several times. Therefore, the objective of this work was to analyze the possible naturalization of Hibiscus sabdariffa in an anthropized locality present in the transition region of the Pantanal, Amazonian Forest and Cerrado Biomes in the city of Cáceres- MT. For the execution of the work, a qualitative research was carried out, of an exploratory and descriptive nature, and bibliographical research on Hibiscus sabdariffa and on the naturalization of plants. Data on disturbances were collected through observations over the years and through interviews with small producers residing in the community. The small population of the Hibiscus sabdariffa species found in the rural community in Cáceres- MT has the characteristics of naturalization, and can therefore be considered a naturalized species in the place and participant of the local biodiversity. In addition, the fact that the species has been present in the area for several years, despite recurrent disturbances, reinforces the occurrence of naturalization.