Uso do biocarvão em substratos de mudas de espécies florestais nativas do Brasil

Abstract

Biochar, also known as biochar, is a carbon-rich material obtained through the pyrolysis of organic residues and has been widely studied as a substrate conditioner, aiming at physical, chemical, and biological improvements in the soil. This study aimed to conduct a systematic review on the use of biochar in the production of seedlings of native forest species, highlighting its effects on plant growth and quality. Searches were conducted in the CAPES Periodicals Portal, Google Scholar, and SciELO databases, using combinations of keywords in Portuguese and English, with no date restrictions. After screening and removal of duplicates, 13 articles were selected that directly addressed the application of biochar in substrates for native forest species. The analyzed studies covered different species, such as rosewood, Brazil nut tree, angico, paricá, faveira, acacia, soapberry, pau-ferro, macaúba, araçá, cajuzinho-do-cerrado, and jurema-preta, employing various biochar sources and combinations with chemical and organic inputs. Applications varied as a percentage of substrate volume or as fixed doses per hectare. Morphological parameters (height, diameter, dry mass, number of leaves, Dickson Quality Index) and physiological parameters (photosynthesis, transpiration, stomatal conductance, nutrient concentration) were evaluated. The results were classified as satisfactory, unsatisfactory, or partially satisfactory. Five studies presented consistent positive responses, three showed no significant benefits, and five exhibited variable responses, indicating that the effectiveness of biochar depends on factors such as species, type and dosage used, as well as its combinations with other inputs. It is concluded that biochar has promising potential in the production of native seedlings, contributing to nutritional and structural improvements in the substrate, although its effectiveness is not uniform among all tested species and conditions. Expanding research and standardizing methodologies may favor the optimized use of this input in restoration programs and sustainable forest production.