347Evolution of the hypsometric relationship...EVOLUTION OF THE HYPSOMETRIC RELATIONSHIP IN Araucaria angustifolia PLANTATIONS IN THE MID-SOUTH REGION OF PARANÁ STATE

ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to assess and model the evolution of the hypsometric relationship in Araucaria angustifolia plantations grown in the 1940’s and 1960’s in the Irati National Forest, in the mid-south region of Paraná state, Brazil. Using the complete stem analysis method, it was possible to reconstitute the past annual growth of the diameter at 1.3 m (d) and of the total height (h) of a sample of 30 trees, selected so as to cover diametric and age variability. Eleven discs were removed from each tree at 0.1 and 1.3 m and at 15, 25, 35,..., 95 % of the total height. Eleven models traditionally used in hypsometric relationships were tested, two of which were considered generic because they involved the age variable. The models were selected based on the Adjusted Coefficient of Determination (RAdj), Standard Estimate Error (Syx), absolute (m) and relative (%), and on the graphic distribution of residues in percentage. In the models tested by age, no tendencies were observed and erros (Syx) remained below 14.6%, except for ages 5 and 11. However, the coefficients of determination were low, ranging from 0.29 to 0.55. The Curtis generic model (1970), selected to represent the h/d curve for all ages, also presented a satisfactory performance (RAdj = 0.87 and Syx = 16%), with results similar to those obtained for the models in each age. As age increases, the h/d curve shifts to the right and changes level, remaining steep at the younger ages and more stable and flat as the population nears the end of its cycle