Patterns of orchid abundance and diversity in an elevation gradient in the tropical montane cloud forest of Tezonapa, Veracruz, Mexico

Objective: To analyze the orchid abundance and diversity in an elevation gradient in the tropical montane cloud forest (TMCF) of Tezonapa, Veracruz, Mexico. Design/Methodology/Approach: Orchids were sampled in 100 × 20 m temporary transects, randomly distributed in an elevation gradient (T1=800-900, T2=901-1,000, T3=1,001-1,100, T4=1,101-1,200, and T5=1,201-1,300 m). Each specimen was georeferenced, species were identified, and the conservation status was determined. Results: The diversity in the area reached 26 orchid species from 16 genera. The passport data of 204 specimens were recorded. Study Limitations/Implications: The greatest abundance, richness, and diversity were recorded in T3. This result matches the favorable temperature and humidity conditions required for the development of orchids in a TMCF. Findings/Conclusions: Stanhopea tigrina is in danger of extinction. Therefore, the following protocol is urgently required: in vitro propagation, release of individuals into the environment, and follow-up of wild populations for genetic improvement purposes.

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Mejenes-López, S. de M. A., Serna-Lagunes, R., Guerrero-Ortiz, C. A., Menchaca-García, R., Armida-Lozano, J., Limón-Rivera, R., López-Morales, F., Reyes-López, D., Hernández-Salinas, G.
Format: Digital revista
Language:spa
Published: Colegio de Postgraduados 2024
Online Access:https://revista-agroproductividad.org/index.php/agroproductividad/article/view/3044
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Summary:Objective: To analyze the orchid abundance and diversity in an elevation gradient in the tropical montane cloud forest (TMCF) of Tezonapa, Veracruz, Mexico. Design/Methodology/Approach: Orchids were sampled in 100 × 20 m temporary transects, randomly distributed in an elevation gradient (T1=800-900, T2=901-1,000, T3=1,001-1,100, T4=1,101-1,200, and T5=1,201-1,300 m). Each specimen was georeferenced, species were identified, and the conservation status was determined. Results: The diversity in the area reached 26 orchid species from 16 genera. The passport data of 204 specimens were recorded. Study Limitations/Implications: The greatest abundance, richness, and diversity were recorded in T3. This result matches the favorable temperature and humidity conditions required for the development of orchids in a TMCF. Findings/Conclusions: Stanhopea tigrina is in danger of extinction. Therefore, the following protocol is urgently required: in vitro propagation, release of individuals into the environment, and follow-up of wild populations for genetic improvement purposes.