Archaeological Sites as a Safeguard for Orchid Diversity: A Study in El Tajin, Veracruz, Mexico

Abstract

ABSTRACT Natural Protected Areas in Mexico help to conserve biodiversity. However, as a megadiverse country, it is necessary to consider other strategies that complement the conservation of species. Archaeological sites in Mexico receive the same level of federal protection as their physical spaces, with different objectives, focused on the safeguarding of culture. El Tajin, a site of archaeological monuments in Veracruz, Mexico, receives protection from the federal government because it is an important historical site. This study was conducted in the archeological zone of El Tajin to determine the diversity of epiphytic orchids and their relationship with their hosts within three different uses of the site. Orchids are probably the largest family of plants; orchids grow and develop by living on other orchids and host plants as well. Three hundred and ninety epiphytic orchids corresponding to five species were found growing on 17 host species. The orchid species with the highest abundance was Lophiaris cosymbephora. Vanilla planifolia, a species in a protected category, was identified. The quadrant with the highest tourist traffic presented the highest abundance and richness of species. Based on our findings, it is important to implement strategies that allow diversity to flourish, particularly the diversity of protected species. This can happen only if these species are cared for. This study supports the idea of considering the archaeological zone as a space for the conservation of biodiversity.