Geographic distribution and endemism of Bromeliaceae from the Western Sierra-Coast region of Jalisco, Mexico

Abstract

Background: Bromeliaceae are widespread in Mexico and present in all types of vegetation. A high number of species are restricted to the country. Jalisco is the fifth Mexican state regarding Bromeliaceae richness and 18 % of its species are state endemics. Questions and / or Hypotheses: How bromeliads are distributed in Western Sierra-Coast region of Jalisco? What is the endemism status of bromeliads in the region? Studied species: Native Bromeliaceae of WSC. Study site and dates: WSC region in Jalisco, collections from 1926 to 2020. Methods: Data were obtained by herbarium material revision and field expeditions. We analyzed life form, distribution by vegetation type, altitudinal range, and recollection activity per year. A richness map was generated. To determine the affinity of the bromeliad flora with other regions of the state, a cluster analysis was performed using UPGMA method. Results: We found nine genera and 53 species, richest genera were Tillandsia and Pitcairnia. Epiphyte was the commonest life form. Oak forest had the highest species number, most taxa were found between 250-750 m asl. Most collections come from the municipality of Cabo Corrientes accounting for 66 % of total species in WSC. The study area hosts, six species of endemic bromeliads. Conclusions: Despite to their restricted distribution, none of the endemic species from WSC are listed under special protection. The WSC should be considered for conservation. The tourism development, deforestation and climate change could have a negative impact on bromeliads, especially epiphytes that depend entirely on the host trees.