Caxetal / Caixetal

Caxetal (or caixetal) is the name given to an ecosystem of the Atlantic Rainforest biome that belongs to the group of pioneer formations. Distinct from the restinga and mangrove ecosystem, it is subjected exclusively to fluvial influence. It occurs mainly in temporarly or permanently flooded freshwater areas (várzeas) along Brasil´s coastal plains.

The caxetais ecosystem is characterized by low biodiversity and dominance of the caxeta / caixeta (Tabebuia cassinoides), a medium sized tree that reaches up to 20 m in height. On the other hand, caxetais present a large quantity of epiphytes, such as bromeliads, orchids, lianas, mosses and liquens.

Due to its soft wood, the caxeta was formerly intensively exploited by the pencil industry. Nowadays, (under the regime of a strict management plan), only some traditional communities (caiçaras) are allowed to sustainably harvest part of the remaining caxeta populations for the purpose of handicraft or the making of musical instruments (rabecas). The caxeta is also a favourite nesting place of the Red - tailed - Amazon.