ABSTRACT In Santa Catarina State, forest classification in successional stages is supported by the National Council of the Environment (CONAMA) Resolution. However, this classification presents several inconsistencies. This study aimed to evaluate the classification accuracy of three classifications schemes of successional stages proposed for the Subtropical Atlantic Evergreen Rainforest of the Santa Catarina State. All schemes are based on threshold values of mean height, mean diameter at breast height, and basal area to distinguish between stages. We used structural and diversity data from 207 sample plots within the Santa Catarina’s State Subtropical Rainforest region to classify the respective stands according to the schemes. The classification accuracy of each scheme was evaluated through the application of linear discriminant analysis (LDA). We constructed a predictive equation using the results of the LDA, from the scheme that presented highest classification accuracy. The current classification (CONAMA Resolution) showed an average of 81.87% of classification accuracy, while Scenario A presented 83.73% and Scenario B 78.67%. From Scenario A, we created a predictive equation based on structural and diversity variables. This equation may be used to classify other forest sites, constituting a new proposal for the secondary vegetation classification in Santa Catarina’s State Subtropical Rainforest.

ABSTRACT Understanding the regeneration process in an old growth forest is essential for restoration projects. The present research sought to characterize the floristic and structural composition of shrub-tree species in São Francisco de Assis Municipal Park in Blumenau-SC. We sampled 50 permanent plots divided into three height classes. We estimated the total natural regeneration index for each species, the Shannon-Wiener diversity index and Pielou equability, and classified the species according to life-form and ecological group. A total of 1048 individuals were found, distributed in 112 species, 69 genera and 37 families. The species with the highest values of total natural regeneration index were Rudgea recurva, R. jasminoides, Ouratea parviflora, Psychotria nuda and Virola bicuhyba. The Shannon and Pielou indices demonstrated high diversity and equability for the natural regeneration area sampled. The results indicate species possibly capable of reaching the tree strata, and also indicate high forest conservation.