Ecosistemas y Recursos Agropecuarios is an international journal published every four months in December, April and August. It publishes original and previously unpublished Scientific Articles, Scientific Notes and Review Articles, from researchers of any national or international educational institution or research center, in an electronic and printed open access format. The journal’s aim is to create a space for discussion and dissemination of results and advances of original and unpublishe
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Structure and diversity of the Tamaulipeco thornyscrub in the 1981 Ramsar site, Nuevo León, Mexico
Ramsar site 1981 is a protected natural area where the most representative ecosystems are the flooded grassland and the Tamaulipan thorn scrub, both subjected to natural and anthropogenic pressures. The objective of the research is to compare the composition, structure and diversity of the Tamaulipan thorn scrub under different stages of recovery in the northeastern zone of the area surrounding the Ramsar site 1981. Fifteen 100 m2 (10 x 10 m) sampling plots were established randomly distributed across 1.5 ha. Woody individuals were considered for sampling if they had a basal diameter (d0.10) greater than or equal to 3 cm, and juvenile individuals if they had diameters less than 3 cm. The absolute abundance was 1 089 N ha, it is presented in a varied and diverse manner; species such as Vachellia farnesiana and Neltuma laevigata stand out, with an abundance of 21 and 28%, respectively. The diameter classes show a distribution characterized by a high concentration of individuals with smaller diameters (plant structure of young individuals), characteristics that denote ecosystems that suffered anthropogenic disturbances and are in growth and development. The shrubland shows a favorable recovery after more than a decade of excluding cattle ranching; the highest index of importance value (IVI) is presented by Neltuma laevigata with 35%, Vachellia farnesiana registering 19%, and Diospyros texana with 27%, which together concentrate a total of 81% of IVI.
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Structure and composition of a cloud forest with Magnolia dealbata Zucc. in Tamaulipas, Mexico
The objective of the research is to assess the structure, composition and diversity of plant community of cloud forest with Magnolia dealbata Zucc. in Tamaulipas (northeast Mexico). We established a total of 12 sampling sites of 10 x 10 m (100 m2) where tree, shrub and herbaceous vegetation were considered. Ecological parameters as abundance (Ar), dominance (Dr), frequency (Fr), importance value index (IVI), Margalef index (DMg), Shannon index (H ') and Pretzsch index (A) were calculated. The analysis reveals the existence of 26 families, 31 genera and 32 species of vascular plants. The largest group was that of angiosperms (87.5% of the species), followed by ferns and related plants (9.4%). In the arboreal strata, Liquidambar styraciflua L. is the species with the highest IVI (36%), followed by Magnolia dealbata (25%). The species with the highest IVI in the lower strata show some degree of disturbance in the plant community. DMG index for species richness shows that the herbaceous strata are more diverse (4.14), followed by arboreal (2.16) and finally the shrub (1.48). The diversity index H '= 3.05.
Effect of inoculation with bacteria of the genus Pseudomonas on growth of Fraxinus uhdei plants
Plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) improve plant development. In this study we evaluated the effect of Pseudomonasbacterial consortia on Fraxinus uhdei plants. A completely randomized experimental design was established with two seed treatments: scarified seeds (SE) and unscarified seeds (SS); and three inoculation treatments: control, single dose, and multiple doses (every 8 days). Accumulated growth, biomass (aerial, root, and total), nitrogen, phosphorus, and N/P ratio were evaluated. Using ANOVA with R software, significant differences were found with the multiple inoculation treatment for all response variables. Segmented regressions identified a cutoff point at 68 days in cumulative growth, indicating the optimal inoculation period. The results confirm that BPCVs are a viable strategy for improving the growth of plants intended for the restoration of degraded ecosystems.
Analysis of post-fire regeneration of a pine-oak forest under two exposure conditions
The natural process by which vegetation recovers is known as regeneration and in plant communities, it can be studied after a disturbance such as forest fires. The objective of this study was to analyze the regeneration of tree and shrub species in a forest three years after a crown fire comparing two slope exposures. The study was developed in an area affected by a crown fire in April 2021 within the "Bosque Escuela" (School Forest) belonging to the Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, in Iturbide, Nuevo Leon. Sixty 10 x 10 m plots were established, distributed in two exposures in burned and non-burned sites (15 per combination). For each tree and shrub species, crown height and diameter were recorded. For each combination, the ecological parameters of absolute abundance, crown area, and importance value index were calculated. Ecological parameters were compared among conditions using the Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn's post hoc tests. Species richness and the effective species index (ESI) were calculated. Bray-Curtis similarity index was calculated among plant communities. The results indicate that the northern-unburned vegetation combination had the highest cover, abundance, and diversity, while the southern-burned vegetation combination had the lowest values for the ecological parameters. Furthermore, exposure largely limited the distribution of plant communities with respect to the disturbance condition caused by the fire.
Comparison of sampling methods to characterize pine-oak forests in northern México
This study presents a comparative evaluation of forest sampling methodologies aimed at describing the structure and composition of irregular pine-oak forests in Ejido Aboreachi, Chihuahua, northern Mexico. A total area of 11.44 hectares was analyzed through a complete tree census, and 16 forest inventory methods were compared, including fixed-area plots and concentric plots of increasing sizes (100–1 500 m2). Key structural variables were assessed, including diameter distribution, species richness, alpha diversity, and evenness, using ecological indices such as Margalef, Shannon-Wiener, Simpson, Hill numbers, Pielou’s evenness, and the Importance Value Index (IVI). Results indicate that larger concentric plots (≥900 m2) provide significantly more accurate estimations relative to the census, capturing forest structural heterogeneity, species diversity, and ecological dominance more effectively. In contrast, smaller plots and the 50 × 20 m rectangular plot showed clear limitations, systematically underestimating richness and diversity, and yielding higher variability in estimates. However, species evenness remained consistent across sampling methods, suggesting structural robustness to plot design. It is concluded that plot size and shape have a decisive influence on the accuracy of ecological characterization in irregular forest stands. For high-precision studies focused on sustainable forest management and conservation, circular plots of at least 900 m2 are recommended due to their superior capacity to reflect the structural and compositional complexity of these ecosystems.
Academic and institutional Perception of Payments for Environmental Services in México
Payments for Environmental Services (PES) ensure conservation for the generation of environmental services, however, sometimes they are poorly designed or inefficient. The objective of the research was to know the perception of experts in PES regarding the advantages and disadvantages of PES in Mexico from an academic and government point of view to propose improvements in their design. The methodology is based on a documentary analysis of the priority criteria in the rules of operation of two PES in Mexico, one at the federal level and another at the state one, with differences in their application and the payment granted. 14 interviews were also conducted with experts from academia and government officials regarding their perception of PES. The main findings indicate that the programmes have not improved over time, leaving aside social and economic criteria, as well as institutional weakness. PES should address the contexts of their application by considering social aspects and obtaining more funding, as well as communication with academia that allows seeking likely improvements.
Spatial distribution of Litsea glaucescens Kunt populations in relation to site quality
Litsea glaucescens (Laurel) is a forest species widely exploited for its uses in Mexico, which is why the study´s objective was to determine the spatial distribution in San Pablo Cuatro Venados, Zaachila, Oaxaca. Sites of 100 m² were established where the geographical coordinates, altitude, exposure, and soil pH of each site were recorded. Additionally, climatic variables were obtained from WorldClim. The number of laurel plants, height, diameter, and planar coordinates were also recorded. A Spearman correlation test was conducted, and Ripley's K(d) function was used to determine the population distribution. The results showed that laurel is found at an average altitude of 2,600 m with a precipitation of 832.2 mm, an annual average temperature of 15.86 °C, and a pH of 6.8. Moreover, it has an aggregated distribution, and the number of laurel plants has a positive relationship (P < 0.05) with exposure.
Landscape dynamics and habitat fragmentation in El Tokio priority land region
Land-use change due to various anthropogenic activities generates habitat fragmentation. The objective of this study is to understand the dynamics of land-use change, classify the fragmentation index based on the Patton diversity index, and identify the activities that cause it in the El Tokio Priority Terrestrial Region (RTP-80), during the period 1995–2018. For this purpose, the vector data set of land use and vegetation of Series II, IV and VII of the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI) was used. Ten vegetation and land-use types were grouped in the analysis of land-use change, revealing a percentage loss of natural grassland cover (-30%) and desert scrubland (-9%), while the area under irrigated agricultural activities increased (105%). The degree of landscape fragmentation was determined as well as the diversity in the shape of the fragments of the natural vegetation type, which was classified into a low, medium, and high fragmentation index based on the surface area, obtaining a higher percentage with high fragmentation in 2018: 65.4% for natural grassland and 91.38% for desert scrub. The constant change in land use, due to the increase in agricultural activities in the region is challenging the permanence of its native vegetation.
Representativeness of vegetation types in protected areas of the San Fernando River Basin, Mexico
In Mexico, an annual vegetation loss rate of 158 229 hectares was recorded between 1990 and 2025. The conservation status of the Río San Fernando basin in Nuevo León was analyzed from both regional and state perspectives, in relation to the degree of representation of plant communities within the network of current and potential protected areas (PA). Digital maps of PA, land use and vegetation (Series VII), and proposed PA for the state of Nuevo León were used. The Río San Fernando basin, from a regional perspective, covers 1 614 528 hectares, of which 59.1% was covered by natural vegetation, while the state average was 65.4%. The eight PA registered in the basin are located only in the state of Nuevo León, totaling 10 840 hectares, which represents less than 1% of the basin's total area. Only the tular (cattail marsh) and coniferous scrubland, of the 16 vegetation types existing in the basin, were found to cover more than 30% of their area within protected areas (PA). The potential incorporation of the proposed PA would add 181 531 hectares to the protection network, representing 11.2% of the basin's natural vegetation cover at the regional level and 20.3% in Nuevo León. The proposal to establish new PA must be adapted to the basin level, as it omits the conservation of the tamaulipan thorn scrub and submontane scrubland, which together represent 68% of the basin total area.
Morphological quality of seedlings of Pinus patula var. longepedunculata y P. pseudostrobus var. oaxacana under fertigation
Within nursery plant reproduction, quality is the main factor that influences the success of reforestation and forest plantations programs. The objective was to evaluate, under nursery conditions, the morphological quality of Pinus patula var. longepedunculata and P. pseudostrobus var. oaxacana seedlings produced with different concentrations of fertigation. The was carried transplant of 120 seedlings per species out in 25×35 cm polyethylene bags and 120 seedlings in tubes per species. A completely randomized design with a 6×2×2 factorial arrangement was used (24 treatments with 20 repetitions); at two months of age they were fertigated with Steiner's universal solution at 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100%. Every 30 days they were measured: height (cm) and diameter at the root collar (mm) and destructive sampling was carried out on two plants for four months to determine the slenderness index (IE), height/root length ratio (ALR), aboveground biomass/root biomass ratio (RBIO) and the Dickson Index (ICD). P. patula presented an increase in leaf area of 2.73 cm2 from three to six months; on the other hand, for P. pseudostrobus it was 2.24 cm2. By using a larger container, leaf area increased by 4.02 cm2 and fertigation stood out at 60, 40 and 20% with medium and high quality indicators. Fertilization and container volume determine the optimal ratio between aboveground biomass and root biomass of the plant.
Vegetation ordenation of Matacanes Canyon, Santiago, Nuevo León, Mexico
Adventure tourism activities in natural areas can generate significant impacts on ecosystems, which requires an understanding of the factors influencing vegetation for effective management. The objective of this study was to identify the main environmental variables affecting the distribution of vegetation in the Matacanes Canyon in Mexico, and to evaluate the role of adventure tourism in its ecology. Sampling of the cover and density of 104 plant species and 15 environmental variables was conducted across 24 sites. Data analysis was performed using exploratory and confirmatory Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA). Herbaceous cover, distance to the river, and altitude were the most influential variables on species distribution (CCA Axis 1). Trampling by humans and livestock was the most important variable on Axis 2. A strong correlation was found between browsing, livestock excrement, and the presence of litter. The study demonstrates that, while the canyon maintains an adequate conservation status with high native diversity, recreational and livestock activities are key disturbance factors influencing vegetation distribution, highlighting the need for management to mitigate these impacts.
Effect of silvicultural treatments and site factors on nutrients contained in aboveground biomass
Temperate forest ecosystems are one of the most important reservoirs of carbon (C) and other nutrients, whose amounts are affected by forest management activities, the site quality and the environment. The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of silvicultural treatments (ST) and site factors on the amounts of C and other nutrients contained in the aboveground biomass. In 2023, 60 sites of 400 m2 were established under a random stratified sampling design; an inventory of the trees was carried out to estimate C stored in trees, and C, nitrogen (N) and calcium (Ca) were estimated in necromass, leaf litter, humus and soil compartments. Goodness-of-fit tests were performed (<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: Symbol; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Palatino Linotype'; mso-fareast-font-family: Avenir; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Palatino Linotype'; mso-bidi-font-family: Avenir; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">c2), ST were differentiated using generalized linear model (GLM) and means tests (Duncan, α = 0.05), as well as rank correlation analysis (Spearman, 0.05). Site factors such as slope, altitude and exposure generate high dependence (p ≤ 0.01) on silvicultural treatments in the amounts of aerial tree C. All compartments differed in their C, N and Ca contents (p ≤ 0.05) between ST, except in the C contents in the tree structure, necromass and leaf litter.
Primary and Secondary vegetation structure and composition of Low Deciduous Thorny Forest in San Carlos, Tamaulipas
Ecosystems are subject to alterations due to anthropogenic activities, the regeneration of which could be affected in their structure and composition, threatening the environmental services they provide and the biodiversity they safeguard. In Tamaulipas, the Low Deciduous Thorny Forest (SBEC) has not been widely studied, and the areas in which it is distributed await special interest for the establishment of grasslands and agriculture. Therefore, the objective of this study was to analyze the structure, composition, and similarity of the vegetation of the Low Deciduous Thorny Forest in two successional states (primary or conserved vegetation and secondary arboreal vegetation) in the municipality of San Carlos, Tamaulipas. Sampling sites were stratified according to soil type, and rectangular plots of 50 x 2 m (100 m2) were established to calculate the relative abundance, dominance, and frequency of the species found there, as well as the importance value index (IVI). Finally, vegetation types were compared using the Jaccard index. The results showed a 47.62% similarity between vegetation variants. The highest IVI value in primary vegetation is found in the Neltuma laevigata species, while in secondary vegetation the highest value for this index corresponds to the Leucophyllum frutescens. Furthermore, this vegetation type recorded the highest species richness. The differences found suggest further research that could address ecological succession, especially that which occurs after a disturbance to generate restoration and conservation programs for the SBEC.
Population density and occupancy of the bobcat (Lynx rufus Schreber) in thornscrub
The bobcat (Lynx Rufus Schreber, 1777) is a mesopredator distributed from southern Canada to southern Mexico. Its presence is an indicator of good ecosystem quality. Although it is considered the most abundant felid in Mexico, there are very few studies that evaluate its population dynamics in arid zones. Therefore, the objective was to determine the population density and occupancy probability of bobcats in fragments of Tamaulipan thornscrub. Population abundance and density were estimated using camera traps and the MARK-CAPTURE tool. The vegetation composition of landscape corridors was evaluated to estimate their relationship with the bobcat population. An occupancy model was elaborated to analyze the presence of the species in the area, using environmental and anthropogenic impact covariates. The average density resulted in 8 individuals 100 km-2, derived from the identification of 23 bobcats and an effective sampling area of 140.31 km2. Sites 17 and 18 had the highest vegetation cover and the highest number of records, as well as a female with cubs and with different prey. The occupancy probability was positively associated with areas of higher vegetation cover. It is concluded that the density values presented are associated with the fragmentation of the vegetation community, and that the variables with the greatest influence on the presence of bobcats are vegetation cover and diversity.
Post fire macrofungal survival from temperate forests in northeastern Mexico
Temperate forests of Nuevo Leon have a high plant, animal and fungi diversity which form nutritional interaction networks and are affected by fires. Mycorrhizal fungi contribute to the nutritional functionality of forests, increasing roots uptake and translocation of minerals and water. The objective is to determine diversity of macromycetes in burned and unburned areas. Two sites (burned and not burned) in Iturbide, Nuevo León temperate forest were evaluated using 5 x 20 m plots. Results show 123 fungi species, 11 Ascomycetes and 112 Basidiomycetes in both study areas. The mycorrhizal species survived in the roots of the oak trees that regrew after the fire (Quercus affinis, Q. canbyi, Q. cupreata, Q. graciliformis, Q. graciliramis Q. laeta and Q. polymorpha). The burned site had 30 species, showing a 75.61% decrease in diversity as compared to the unburned site (118 species). Five of these fungi had not been registered in the last 38 years. They are Jafnea semitosta, Sphaerosporella brunnea, Hypholoma lateritium, Climacocystis sp. and Oligoporus sp. The last three are opportunistic; they established in stressed and weak trees. None pine species survived the fire. Results showed that richness and diversity of macromycetes were higher in unburned natural areas. Similarity between the two zones was low, since of the 123 species only 25 species were shared in both sites. Macromycetes were integrated in the Mycological Herbarium (CFNK) as reference and some strains with potential for cultivation are kept at the strain collection at the Faculty of Forest Sciences UANL.
Ecological association of species of interest for restoration as facilitator plants in México
Forest ecosystems face significant pressure from agricultural and livestock expansion, as well as the recurrence of forest fires. In response to this problem, this study focused on identifying optimal species for use as facilitator plants in ecological restoration strategies. To this end, the biogeographic variability of ten species in the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt and the Sierra Madre Oriental was analyzed using QGIS 3.32 software. The most predominant species with the greatest facilitator potential were B. cordata, T. stans, D. viscosa, C. canadensis, and C. lusitanica. These species exhibit a wide altitudinal distribution (from 150 to 3800 meters above sea level) and a remarkable tolerance to a broad range of annual rainfall (between 189 and 2700 mm). The selected species possess key ecological characteristics that make them ideal candidates for the restoration of degraded ecosystems.
Measurement of forest attributes of coniferous species using digital drone photography
The photogrammetric point cloud provides information that allows to estimate dendrometric and dasometric variables at the individual tree level with precision. The objective was to evaluate the potential of the geospatial point cloud generated by photogrammetry of aerial photographs captured by a low-cost drone in the estimation of dendrometric and dasometric variables in conifer species. With data on total height (At: m), basal area (AB: m2) and volume (Vol: m3) of 80 conifer trees measured in the field, linear (M1), exponential (M2), M1 with mixed effects (M3), M2 with mixed effects (M4), artificial neural networks (ANN-M5) and random forest (RF-M6) regression models were fitted to estimate At, AB and Vol based on height metrics (z), of the measured conifers, from the photogrammetric point cloud. The efficiency of the estimates was determined using the highest adjusted coefficient of determination (R2adj), the lowest root mean square error (RMSE), the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), and Bias. The At was best estimated using the photogrammetric point cloud metrics, with R2adj ranging from 0.87 to 0.98, and RMSE of 1.64 and 0.61 m; M2 being the best. Regarding the estimation of AB and Vol, the RF-M6 model was the best, achieving an R2 of 0.77 and 0.77, and RMSE of 0.046 and 0.269, respectively. It is concluded that the photogrammetric 3D point cloud is an alternative for estimating forest variables at the tree level.
Rainfall redistribution in a mixed forest fragment in Durango, Mexico
In order understand the redistribution of precipitation in a fragment of mixed forest in the “Ejido” Adolfo Ruiz Cortines, Durango, an experiment was conducted between 2017 and 2020 at a 2500 m2 forest plot, where the interception and water flow of precipitation, throughfall, and stemflow were measured to quantify losses due to canopy interception and to characterize the chemical properties of water (pH (CaCl2) and CE (μS cm-1)). A total of 77 rainfall events were recorded, with a precipitation of 2,236.1 mm. Throughfall for Arbutus bicolor, Quercus rugosa, and Q. sideroxyla was 63%, 82%, and 76%, respectively. Stemflow accounted for 0.08% in A. bicolor, 0.41% in Q. rugosa, and 0.88% in Q. sideroxyla. Interception losses were 34%, 18%, and 17% for A. bicolor, Q. rugosa, and Q. sideroxyla, respectively. The chemical analysis of rainwater showed a pH mean of 5.9 for precipitation, decreasing to 5.6 for throughfall and remaining at 6.0 for stemflow. Electrical conductivity values were 32.4 for precipitation, 39.63 for throughfall, and 116.04 for stemflow. Understanding water interception is crucial to recognizing that, from a hydrological perspective in forest management, the presence and distribution of plant species are essential to ensure adequate water flow in the ecosystem, a key aspect for maintaining active biogeochemical processes.
Determination of habitat characteristics associated with the presence of ninphas of Ocoaxo assimilis
This study examines the relationship between floristic composition, habitat characteristics and edaphic factors associated with the presence of Ocoaxo assimilis nymphs in Pino-Encino forests in Puebla, Mexico. Using a multidimensional approach that integrated systematic quadrat sampling, logistic regression analysis, nonparametric tests (Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis), and similarity analysis methods (ANOSIM, NMDS), key variables influencing nymph distribution were identified. Logistic regression models revealed that nymphs prefer sites at higher altitudes and with greater floristic diversity, particularly those with arboreal indicator species such as Quercus rugosa and Quercus mexicana, as well as the herbaceous Euphorbia sp. and Verbena sp. The absence of Senegalia greggii was also found to be an essential factor. Although edaphic factors did not show significant differences, it was suggested that clay content might have an indirect role in habitat preference. These results provide new insights into ecological interactions in these ecosystems and establish a basis for developing monitoring and management strategies aimed at forest integrity.
Etnobotany in the Ejido Pablillo, Galeana, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
A study of useful plants in the Ejido Pablillo, Galeana, Nuevo Leon, Mexico was carried out. One hundred semi-structured surveys were conducted (18 men and 82 women) to gather information on the plant species used and the uses they give them in their daily lives. Two quantitative ethnobotanical indices were analyzed, the Consensus Factor Index (FIC) and the Value of Use Index (IVU) to evaluate the importance of the species within the ejido community. Seventy-three families, 156 genera and 203 species of plants were recorded. The main uses were ornamental with 61 families, 100 genera and 122 species, followed by food plants (22 families, 43 genera and 54 species) and medicinal plants (22 families, 37 genera and 38 species). Other important uses were wood, fuel, and construction. The FIC showed that although there is no broad consensus on the use of medicinal species used, since their use varies among most of them, the UVI species, there are some that are traditionally important and used to cure certain ailments.
Effects of limestone dust on seedling development of six legume species
Limestone extraction is vital for various industries and plays a significant role in the national economy. However, its extraction and transportation generate atmospheric particulate matter that adversely affects ecosystems, causing impacts that range from reduced primary production to biodiversity loss. This study evaluates the effects of limestone dust on the growth of seedlings from six native leguminous species in northeastern Mexico. Exposure to limestone dust differentially affected total biomass, biomass allocation between aerial and root systems, height, and crown diameter in Vachellia farnesiana, Ebenopsis ebano, Havardia pallens, and Parkinsonia aculeata. In contrast, no effects were observed in Erythrostemon mexicanus seedlings, while Neltuma laevigata exhibited negative responses across all evaluated parameters. These findings suggest that E. mexicanus seedlings are tolerant to dust-induced stress, making them suitable for use in restoration or pollution mitigation efforts. Furthermore, the species-specific responses underscore the importance of this information for ecological restoration, monitoring natural regeneration, and managing ecosystems affected by sedimentary particles.
Foraging habits of desert mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus eremicus Rafinesque) in Coahuila, Mexico
Understanding the dietary composition of the mule deer is essential for habitat management. This study aimed to identify the composition and selection of the mule deer diet in the UMA Rancho San Juan, located in the municipality of Monclova, Coahuila, Mexico. During 2019-2020, seasonal forage availability and diet composition were evaluated. To estimate forage availability, 18 randomly placed 25 m transects were established in each season. Diet composition was determined through microhistological analysis of fecal samples. Diversity indices, non-parametric tests, and forage selectivity indices were used to analyze forage use. Shrub species were the most abundant throughout the year, peaking in spring (59.54%). The mule deer diet included 54 species, of which eight accounted for 50% of the total composition. Throughout the year, shrubs were the predominant food group (38 spp.), while herbaceous plants were less frequent (5 spp.). Diet selection varied according to species, growth form, and season. Fourteen preferred species were identified, with Acacia rigidula being selected in all seasons. These findings provide key information for delineating priority foraging areas and conserving the mule deer habitat in northeastern Mexico.
Composition and structure of a managed forest in the state of Durango, Mexico
Parameters for the structural characterization of forests allow for a satisfactory description of the tree stratum. This study aimed to determine the composition and horizontal and vertical structure of a forest under different silvicultural treatments. The structure was evaluated in 52 plots of 1000 m2 divided into selective cuts using the Método Mexicano de Ordenación de Bosques Irregulares (MMOBI) and thinnings using the Método de Desarrollo Silvícola (MDS) on different geographic aspects in the El Brillante ejido, Pueblo Nuevo, Durango. The structure was analyzed using density histograms, differences in parameters (diameters and heights), and the Pretzsch index. The results showed young, second-growth forests with no significant differences in diameter class between treatments and aspects. Species richness was impacted by the thinning treatments; however, density, basal area, and canopy cover did not show significant differences. For the vertical structure, the diversity of heights is medium, so the development stage is lattice-like, with a uniformity of 72%. For the upper stratum in the selection treatment, Pinus durangensis is dominant, followed by Pinus cooperi and Pinus leiophylla; in the middle stratum, P. durangensis, P. cooperi, and Quercus sideroxyla; and in the lower stratum, P. durangensis and P. cooperi. For thinning, P. durangensis and P. cooperi were dominant in all three strata, showing the absence of many species that do appear in the selection treatment.
Floristic richness in a managed forest in the Sierra Norte de Puebla, México
In Mexico, 44% of the area occupied by forest ecosystems is harvested through forest management programs. A recent demand on the forestry sector is to monitor and evaluate the impact of management on vegetation. In order to generate reference information, the floristic composition was described in areas subject to different silvicultural treatments and an area excluded from management, in the ejido Poxcuatzingo, Zacatlán, Puebla. Seventy-five species of phanerogams were recorded. The richest growth form is herbaceous (53 species), followed by shrub (15) and tree (7). The families Asteraceae, Rosaceae and Fagaceae contribute the highest species richness, and areas subject to clear-cutting have the highest species richness. The areas subjected to different silvicultural treatments have a characteristic composition, which is significantly different from the rest. The similarity in floristic composition between different treatments ranges from low to high, and apparently there is no loss of species throughout the rotation in the application of the treatments. It is suggested: 1) to use our results as a regional reference to monitor the impact of forest management on floristic richness, 2) to identify representative areas of silvicultural treatments to describe their composition and use it as reference information for monitoring in other regions.
Warm and dry conditions as triggers of Dendroctonus mexicanus Hopkins Outbreaks
The association of Dendroctonus mexicanus with the warm and cold phases of the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO), the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO), and the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO) was evaluated, along with its relationship with infested area and the variables: mean, maximum, and minimum temperature, and precipitation in Pinus cembroides forests of Aramberri, Nuevo León, during 2015-2020. The affected area was estimated using official reports and Sentinel-2 delineation through unsupervised classification and photointerpretation. Monthly temperature and precipitation series, together with SOI, PDO, and AMO, were analyzed using Pearson correlations with lags of 0-11 months (α = 0.05) and phase-based composites. Total affected area was 2,058.4 ha; 2017 accounted for 1 054.71 ha (51.2%), under the influence of the 2016-2017 La Niña episode and negative PDO. Months with infestation exhibited Tmax values of 25.8-29.2 °C (median ≈ 27.1 °C) and Tmin of 14.7-17.9 °C (median ≈ 17.3 °C). Tmax correlated positively with SOI and negatively with PDO, while Tmin showed weaker negative correlations with PDO. Precipitation exhibited isolated significant associations, and AMO showed no relevant signal. Most infestation occurred in spring summer and was distributed in discrete outbreaks concentrated near the arid boundary of the Mexican Altiplano.