Bromélias no Paisagismo, Saúde Pública e Ambiente

Abstract

The use of bromeliads in gardens became frequent in Brazil. Knowing that many of these plants are breeding places of various mosquito species, was formulated a hypothesis and evidences was found that this use could have consequences on human health. For example, preliminary samples found Aedes albopictus, a dengue disease vector, in bromeliads of high class development in São Paulo-SP. With this evidence it is possible to deduce that certain bromeliads in gardens increase public health problems. However, this deduction claims experimental demonstration and indicates the need for mitigating actions for the potential problems. Among these actions, the discution of research aspects and garden management and project is relevant. Also, it is pointed that bromeliad extrativism, that suply part of the market of these plants, may lead some species to extinction. Concluding: part of landscape design, at least in some cities of São Paulo state, focuses aesthetic features, ignoring important ecological and medical aspects. An integrated aproach to landscape design is desired