Phylogenetic endemism of the orchids of Megamexico reveals complementary areas for conservation.

ABSTRACT: Orchid diversity provides a unique opportunity to further our understanding of biotic and abiotic factors linked to patterns of richness, endemism, and phylogenetic endemism in many regions. However, orchid diversity is consistently threatened by illegal trade and habitat transformation. Here, we identified areas critical for orchid conservation in the biogeographic province of Megamexico. For this purpose, we evaluated orchid endemism, phylogenetic diversity, and phylogenetic endemism within Megamexico and characterized orchid life forms. Our results indicate that the majority of the regions with the highest estimates of endemism and phylogenetic endemism are in southern Mexico and northern Central America, mostly located on the Pacific side of Megamexico. Among the most important orchid

SUBMITTER: Gutierrez-Rodriguez BE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9363653 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature