Abstract
Our study evaluated how researchers’ experience and community knowledge influence the representativeness and diversity of epiphyte sampling. We used a mixed methodology. For the quantitative component, we made a statistical comparison of vascular and non-vascular epiphyte records from three researchers with different levels of expertise (expert, intermediate, and inexperienced) at PNR El Vínculo. For the qualitative component, we interviewed six local inhabitants and analyzed their responses to identify ecological knowledge and conservation practices. The results showed that researchers’ expertise influenced sampling representativeness, especially for lichens, with the expert-level researcher recording greater richness and diversity. The less experienced researchers tended to overestimate bryophytes, possibly due to confusion with lichens. No significant differences were found for vascular epiphytes. Accumulation and rarefaction curves confirmed these patterns. From a qualitative perspective, detailed local knowledge about epiphytes and ecological transformations in the area was highlighted. Furthermore, the potential of domestic gardens as informal conservation spaces was identified, with species not recorded in technical surveys. These findings underscore the need to integrate scientific expertise and local knowledge into methodological guidelines for a better representation of epiphyte biodiversity, especially nonvascular species.
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