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Keywords
diversity
vascular epiphytes
phorophytes
lichens
sub-Andean forest
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Abstract
We evaluated the floristic composition and vertical distribution of epiphytes, as well as the relationship between phorophyte height and diameter at breast height (DBH) and the richness of these species. Diversity was analyzed using the Shannon–Wiener and Simpson indices. A total area of 24 ha was sampled, including 71 phorophytes, of which 36 were located at the forest edge or exterior and 35 in the interior of the remnant. The abundance of vascular epiphytes was estimated by counting individuals, whereas non-vascular epiphytes were quantified through projected cover area (cm²). We recorded 123 epiphyte species across 92 genera, 50 families, and 28 orders. Mosses (Bryophyta) were the most diverse group, with 47 species, followed by lichenized fungi (Ascomycota) with 28 species and angiosperms with 23 species. Non-vascular epiphytes represented 65.9% of the total abundance, and Bryaceae was the richest family, with seven species, followed by Hypnaceae, Dicranaceae, and Orthotrichaceae, with five species each. Among vascular epiphytes (10,074 individuals), Orchidaceae was the dominant family, with Lepanthes tracheia (623 individuals) and Epidendrum melinanthum (619 individuals) as the most abundant species. Diversity indices indicated intermediate diversity (D > 0.79). Vertical stratification showed significant differences, with the trunk presenting the highest abundance. Phorophyte species explained 58% of the variation in epiphyte composition, with Lacistema aggregatum, Myrsine guianensis, and Aiouea montana identified as the most diverse host species. Specimens were collected as part of an undergraduate thesis project (Res. 1053/2022, Universidad del Cauca) under the ANLA framework permit No. 001040/2025. This study constitutes the first quantitative record of vascular and non-vascular epiphytes in a sub-Andean forest in Cauca.
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