Licenciatura en Biología

Comunidad liquénica del parque distrital ecológico de montaña PDME Cerro Seco: un aporte a la conservación local

Resumen

Lichens are an essential component of biodiversity and play important ecological roles; however, their diversity in Colombia's subxerophytic ecosystems remains poorly documented. This study aimed to characterize the taxonomic composition of the lichen biota of the Cerro Seco Mountain Ecological District Park (PDEM Cerro Seco), located in Ciudad Bolívar, Bogotá D.C., as a contribution to the knowledge and conservation of this ecosystem. Field sampling was conducted through opportunistic collections on the main available substrates. Specimens were processed and identified at the Gilberto Emilio Mahecha Vega Forest Herbarium (UDBC) using morphological and anatomical characters, conventional chemical spot tests potassium hydroxide (K), sodium hypochlorite (C), the combined potassium hydroxide and sodium hypochlorite reaction (KC), para-phenylenediamine (P), and Lugol's iodine solution (I), and specialized taxonomic literature. A total of 141 specimens were analyzed, of which 137 were identified to the family level and 136 to the genus level. The study recognized 77 taxa identified to species or morphospecies, belonging to 37 genera and 21 families, representing the first lichen inventory of PDEM Cerro Seco. The richest genera were Cladonia, Acarospora, Lecidea, Lecanora, Parmotrema, and Buellia, highlighting the high lichen diversity and the heterogeneity of microhabitats within the study area. As a knowledge dissemination strategy, an illustrated guide was developed describing the recorded genera and their main diagnostic features. This study provides a baseline for future ecological monitoring and emphasizes the importance of incorporating lichen diversity into the management and conservation strategies of the Cerro Seco Mountain Ecological District Park.

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