Abstract:
The wax p alm (Ceroxylon echinulatu m) and palm heart (Prestoea acuminata) are key elements in Andean natural forests. This ecosystem is th- reatened by deforestation and habitat degra- dation, thus, it is vital to explore the impact of anthropogenic activities on the ecological struc- tu re an d p r ef erences of t hese species in order to develop proper conservation strategies. Fifty- seven 400 m2 plots were established in two for- est areas, a di sturbed forest (n = 30 plots) and an undisturbed forest (n = 27 plots) in the Ecua- dorean Andes. Nine micro-environmental vari- ables and the number of individuals of C. echi- nulatum and P. acuminata in five size classes were recorded in each plot. Logistic regression models helped identify environmental variables that influence the establishment of the species. Results showed that different micro-environ- mental variables determined the presence of different size classes. Both species were bene- fitted by the environmental conditions of the dis- turbed forest. Light availability was import ant for the establish ment of both specie s , especially for the canopy species (C. echinulatum). This palm was negatively affected by the variable “fallen wood”, while P. acuminata was negatively af- fected mainly by the steepness of the terrain. The environmental variables for the successful establishment of the studied species that were identified by this study provide clues for the su- stainable management of C. echinulatum and P. acuminata in Andean forests.
