Invasive pine control promotes native plant regeneration, but with limited effect in the Cerrado, Brazil

Introduction Invasions by Pinus represent major challenges for conservation and ecological restoration, especially in open ecosystems of tropical South America, such as the Brazilian neotropical savanna (Cerrado). Objective We evaluated whether the clear‐cutting and manual removal of Pinus caribaea reduce the impacts of invasion on woody plant composition, vegetation structure, and woody community diversity in the Cerrado. Methods We assessed four conditions representing different invasion and management histories in a mosaic of savanna grassland, savanna woodland, and forest: a recently (6 years) and older (20 years) managed conditions, an unmanaged invaded, and a non‐invaded reference. In each condition, we sampled the woody plant individuals (diameter at ground level >1 cm) within 10 random 10 m × 10 m plots. Floristic composition, vegetation structure, and diversity were evaluated using ordination, rarefaction curves, and taxonomic diversity indices. Results Recent management promoted Cerrado recovery, with native species richness, abundance, and basal area approaching similar values observed in the non‐invaded area. In contrast, the older managed area showed limited recovery even after two decades. The unmanaged invaded area exhibited the strongest negative impacts, including reduced richness and basal area of native species, and loss of savanna specialists. The non‐invaded area showed the greatest distinctiveness. Conclusions Pinus invasion produces long‐lasting negative effects on Cerrado woody communities. However, clear‐cutting combined with regular manual removal effectively promotes native regeneration and helps prevent further spread of P. caribaea . Protection of non‐invaded savannas remains crucial for maintaining characteristic Cerrado biodiversity.