Woody Vegetation of Murundus Fields in a Forestry-Dominated Landscape on Brazilian Savanna

Murundus fields (wetland earth-mounds) represent a relatively understudied physiognomy in the Cerrado biome. This study aimed to evaluate the composition, life history, phytosociology, endemism, and conservation status of woody plant species in murundus fields in a forestry-dominated landscape in the Brazilian savanna. We established 40 plots, each measuring 50 × 20 m, where all live shrub-arboreal plants with a trunk diameter at the base of ≥1 cm and a height > 0.5 m were identified. Using these data, we calculated the absolute and relative values of density, dominance, and frequency, as well as the importance value index. In addition, we estimated Shannon’s and Simpson’s diversity indices and Pielou’s equability index. Our findings included 155 species, 69 genera, and 38 families in the study area. The invasive exotic species Pinus caribaea Morelet showed the highest importance value, followed by Jacaranda caroba (Vell.) DC., Miconia albicans (Sw.) Steud., Erythroxylum suberosum A.St.-Hil., and Miconia fallax DC. The pronounced presence of P. caribaea is a matter of concern and highlights the need for control measures, given its potential to hinder the regeneration of native species. We identified species occurring in various Cerrado phytophysiognomies, suggesting that murundus fields function as transitional habitats. This study underscores the importance of conserving species within the inadequately studied Cerrado physiognomy.