Tardígrados (phylum Tardigrada) asociados a briófitos de agroecosistemas freseros en Sibaté, Cundinamarca

Abstract

Tardigrades are microscopic invertebrates known to withstand extreme conditions. Their sensitivity to environmental pollutants in urban areas that affect their density and diversity has been documented; however, in environments such as rural areas and modified ecosystems, studies are still scarce. Therefore, the aim of this study was to study tardigrades associated with bryophytes in strawberry agroecosystems in Sibaté, Cundinamarca. Forty-five bryophyte samples were taken from nine strawberry farms located in paramo and Andean forest habitats and in the area of influence of the Muña dam in Sibaté, Cundinamarca, Colombia. The samples were preserved in paper bags, subsequently analyzed under the stereoscope at the "Kumangui" research group of the Universidad Distrital and the specimens were identified under a phase contrast microscope at the "MIKU" research group ofthe Universidad del Magdalena. A PCА, NMDS and Bray Curtis analysis was performed. A total of 11 genera were found, 3 new records for Colombia, the genus with the highest abundance was Haplohexapodibius, the habitat with the highest diversity and abundance was the paramo zone. The paramo habitat may favor the presence of tardigrades due to the environmental conditions it presents, and altitude plays an important role in the distribution of tardigrades. It can be inferred that the transition zones may be of importance, so they can facilitate the presence of tardigrades and a high diversity.