Abstract

SILVA-GARCIA, Jesús Eduardo et al. Influence of altitude and exposure on the structure and composition of a temperate forest in the state of Durango. Rev. mex. de cienc. forestales [online]. 2022, vol.13, n.70, pp.64-84.  Epub May 09, 2022. ISSN 2007-1132.  https://doi.org/10.29298/rmcf.v13i70.1163.

Geographic variables can largely determine species structure and diversity. The objective of the study was to determine whether there are differences between the components that make up the structure, diversity, and floristic composition in relation to exposure and altitude in temperate forests of the state of Durango. The mensuration data were obtained from 30 permanent sites (2 500 m2), considering a normal diameter (Nd)> 7.5 cm (at 1.30 m), total height, and the record by species. 6 areas distributed at three altitudinal intervals (500 m) with South and North exposure were defined. The structure was characterized based on the Importance Value Index (IVI), alpha diversity (α) with richness of species (S), and the Shannon true diversity index (1 D), as well as beta diversity (β) determined by means of a Bray-Curtis similarity analysis. A two-factor ANOVA statistical test was performed to find significant differences between altitude intervals in the different areas. The areas with a higher altitude had higher density and basimetric area in both exposures, except for area 5 (1 500 to 1 800 m south), which showed similar values in basal area. The Pinus and Quercus genera showed a higher IVI in all areas. The sites with a southern exposure had a greater richness of species, especially those located at the lowest altitude interval. The similarity between areas comprised the zones with the highest altitude and northern exposure, isolating the lowlands with different altitude ranges.

Keywords : ANOVA; density; diversity; interval; richness of species; similarity.

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