Abstract

LOPEZ, Ramiro Pablo. Spatial patterns as indicators of interactions and some population parameters in the Bolivian endemism Bulnesia rivas-martinezii (Zygophyllaceae). Ecología en Bolivia [online]. 2024, vol.59, n.1, pp.20-33.  Epub Apr 31, 2024. ISSN 1605-2528.

Bolivia is a megadiverse country, with many endemisms. In this paper I characterize spatial patterns and some population parameters of a Bolivian endemic, Bulnesia rivas-martinezii (Zygophyllaceae), in order to contribute with baseline information for the conservation of this species, which possibly has one of the smallest distribution areas among Bolivian species. I use data obtained in different field campaigns several years ago to characterize spatial patterns. These allow us to understand the processes that may be important for explaining the ecology of this species. I also describe the abundance of this and its accompanying species, and its population structure (based on size). B. rivas-martinezzii shows a discontinuous distribution but is one of the dominant species in the few localities where it occurs, usually showing clumpy spatial patterns. Population structure differs from locality to locality, but in general recruitment seems to be limited and/or mortality is high in young stages, which represents a potential danger for the persistence of the species. There is indication of selfthinning in the largest population. B. rivas-martinezii shows positive associations with some shrub and cactus species, apparently due to similar microhabitat requirements, and positive and negative (depending on the spatial scale) with two Prepuna dominant species (Pseudosenegalia feddeana and Parkinsonia andicola). It is necessary to undertake more specific studies on the ecology of the species to better interpret what was found in this study and to provide more insight aimed at its conservation.

Keywords : Andes; Deserts; Plant-plant interactions.

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