Phenotypic variability and phenological behavior of Caryocar brasiliense under tropical savanna climate conditions
ABSTRACT This study investigated the phenological dynamics of Caryocar brasiliense cultivated in the northwestern region of Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil, aiming to understand its adaptation to tropical Cerrado conditions and to support its conservation and sustainable management. Biometric variables (height, stem diameter, and crown diameter) and morphological characteristics were monitored and analyzed, in addition to thermal accumulation expressed in degree-days, correlation analyses with climatic factors, and non-linear regression models. The results showed continuous increases in stem and crown diameter, with values comparable to or higher than those of natural individuals, even in young plants, indicating strong growth performance in cultivation. Phenological observations revealed flowering between August and September and fruit abscission concentrated in December, consistent with the local climatic regime. Sprouting showed positive correlations with temperature and precipitation, while defoliation was not influenced by climatic factors. The orchard demonstrated potential for inclusion in intensive fruiting systems, such as high-density planting, an emerging trend in the fruit growing sector. The results highlight the potential for cultivating the pequi tree (C. brasiliense Camb.) in this region, reinforcing its suitability for sustainable production systems and for the recovery of degraded lands in tropical areas. In this context, C. brasiliense shows potential for domestication and use in sustainable production systems, while also highlighting its relevance under climate change scenarios due to its ability to adapt to high temperatures and water-limited conditions.