Abstract:
The objective of this research is to compare some regression models used to fit the relationship between dominant height and age, and use the best one to construct site index curves for Pinus elliottii plantations in the southern states of Paraná and Santa Catarina. The used data to rich this aim came from stem analysis of 26 dominant trees, completed by height measurements and age of 260 temporary sample plots scatered in the states of Paraná and Santa Catarina. The age ranged from 1 to 29 years old, covering all site classes. The statistic and residual analysis proved that the Chapman-Richards biological model was the best, among the tested, to fit the dominant height-age relationship, therefore it was used to construct the site index curves for Pinus elliottii. The estability of the curves was also tested, prpving that there is confiability in using such site index, curves to classify Pinus elliottii plantations in the States of Paraná and Santa Catarina and perhaps in another brazilian states, where this species is planted.
