Genetic diversity and structure in two epiphytic orchids from the montane forests of southern Ecuador: The role of overcollection on Masdevallia rosea in comparison with the widespread Pleurothallis lilijae.

ABSTRACT: Ecuador has a high diversity of orchids, but little is known about levels of genetic diversity for the great majority of species. Understanding how orchids might adapt to changes is crucial as deforestation and fragmentation of forest ecosystems threaten the survival of many epiphytic orchids that depend on other species, such as fungi and their host trees, for germination, growth, and establishment. Overcollection and the illegal trade are also major concerns for the survival of wild populations of orchids. Despite increasing awareness, effective interventions are often limited by a lack of data concerning the impacts that overexploitation might have. To fill this gap, we tested the effects of overcollection in the genetic diversity and structure of Masdevallia rosea, a narrow distributed

SUBMITTER: Riofrio M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10503748 | biostudies-literature | 2023

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature