Ecology of frailejones in the Sumapaz páramo, Colombia

In this work we determined the relationship between the population structure of Espeletia grandiflora and its sexual propagation in a disturbed sector of the Chisacá páramo (Sumapaz N.N.P.), in order to generate a baseline for studies that allow its conservation and restoration in disturbed areas. The population surrounding the Los Tunjos lagoon was sampled through plots, where E. grandiflora has a large supply of seeds, with low dispersal and seasonal germination rate, which forms a seed bank with regenerative potential due to its dormancy. The reduced survival rate of the seedlings and the longevity of its mature individuals, allows determining the species as a non-pioneer ecotype. Research like this in the ecology of high mountain populations is necessary given the environmental and social problems of our páramos and constitutes a tool for projects of organizations that are willing to work for the conservation and management of natural resources.

Autorentext

Biologe und Agraringenieur der Universidad Nacional Colombia, Master in Umweltwissenschaften der Universidad Jorge Tadeo Lozano, mit Erfahrung in Hochgebirgsökologie, nachhaltiger Produktion und Management des umweltwissenschaftlichen Programms. Lehrer an der SED Bogotá bzw. Postgraduierten-Direktor der U. Jorge Tadeo Lozano.