Patrones de diversidad y distribución geográfica de los helechos (pteridophyta) a través de un gradiente altitudinal en la Vereda “La Concepción”, Guasca- Cundinamarca

Abstract

In Colombia, studies focused on analyzing the patterns of diversity in ferns that inhabit moors are non-existent, which leads to a lack of knowledge of the diversity taxonomy of the same in these ecosystems in the country, generating gaps that affect negative way to the possible conservation strategies for the species of ferns that inhabit these ecosystems. For this reason, in the present study the patterns of diversity and altitudinal distribution of the ferns (Pteridophyta) present in the village "La conception" in the municipality of Guasca- Colombia, through an altitude gradient between 3027 m.a.s.l. up to 3316 m.a.s.l. Four study stations were established each 100 m and 2 plots of 10m2 were built at each station, where a collection was made Handbook. In addition, the variables of temperature, precipitation and relative humidity were measured. at each sampling point. Diversity profiles were estimated in the R program by means of the iNEXT, BiodiversityR and vegan packages. To describe beta diversity, ordination and grouping analysis, which allowed to complement the patterns altitude distribution. It was found that there is a pattern of diversity in the form of "U", where the sampling points of lower and higher altitude present greater abundance of individuals, with respect to one of the intermediate altitudes. It is reported that there are species that inhabit only high altitudes, and others that can be found along the gradient evaluated altitude. Finally, this paper makes a contribution to the description of the patterns of diversity and knowledge of the taxonomic diversity of the ferns that inhabit moors in Colombia, particularly Cundinamarca, finding species endemics, new records for the study area and expansion of altitude ranges for some species of ferns.