Propagation of keystone-woody species as a first step in restoration of an overgrazed seasonal dry forest

Abstract In degraded forest ecosystems, reintroduction of keystone-woody species is an important step for restoration because it provides regeneration niches. However, lack information on how to propagate restricts the use native species; specially in tropical dry forests where seed germination seasonal and synchronized with onset wet season. We evaluated dormancy-breaking requirements nine from Dry Chaco Forest. Most fresh viable seeds keystone are nondormant, but viability decreases during dry-cold storage restricting some species. Seeds three germinated higher percentages light than darkness those five equally well darkness; Castela coccinea light. Alternating vs. constant temperatures had no effect seven Anisocapparis speciosa Cynophalla retusa were nondormant remained only 1 month cold-dry storage; 62–95% other nondormant. Dormancy-break was studied four physiological dormancy one physical dormancy. Dormancy-breaking promoted by environmental conditions habitat, i.e. warm stratification, after dispersal. , Achatocarpus praecox Mimosa detinens Capparicordis tweedieana most suitable overgrazed areas Forest their germinate a high percentage retain at low temperatures. required mechanical scarification 6-weeks respectively, dormancy-break.