Structural and diversity analysis of Abies forests from Jalisco, Mexico [Análisis estructural y de diversidad en los bosques de Abies de Jalisco, México]

Abstract

Structure, floristic composition and diversity in Abies forests were determined in twenty-four 0.1 ha plots in 5 areas in Jalisco State. The resulting attributes were compared between areas. Sixty four species, 47 genera and 35 families were recorded. The families Asteraceae, Pinaceae and Fagaceae, as well as the genera Quercus, Pinns and Abies had the highest species richness. More than half (56%) of the individuals had a height ranging between 2 and 14 m, with Abies religiosa van emarginata, A. guatemalensis var. jaliscana, Quercus xalapensis and A. religiosa var. religiosa presenting the taller trees. The highest density values, basal area, frequency and importance values were for A. religiosa var. emarginata, A. religiosa var. religiosa, Pinus pseudostrobus y Podocarpus matudae. Individuals of the species presented an inverted "J"-shaped diameter distribution, while no statistical significant differences were observed for richness and species diversity in the 5 study areas. Average similarity between plots in the 5 areas presented significant differences in 4 of the plots. Despite being quite different in floristic composition, Abies forests in Jalisco were similar in structure, diversity and richness. The presence of tall individuals and emergent trees in all strata suggests a good regeneration capacity in the communities of the 5 areas studied.