Population study of Pereskia zinniiflora (burr), spatial distribution and threats to its survival.

Abstract

The Hatibonico Ecological Reserve is a protected area located in the easternmost point of the Sierra Maestra, and it is the main nucleus of the Baconao Biosphere Reserve, located in the southwestern region of Guantanamo province, it has an area of 6274 ha. The populations of (Pereskia zinniiflora DC) were evaluated in this protected area, and it was determined the main threats affecting the species, and the spatial distribution of the populations in situ. For the research, 10x10m plots were chosen to observe the behavior of the plants´ population. The analysis allowed establishing the existence of three demographic groups: fully-grown plants, young plants, and sprouts. The results revealed that the population of burr found was 102 plants, the effective population number (Ne) was 15 individuals, the population increase was determined with management and reforestation, and in addition, a population density was calculated for the taxon of 0.02 indviduals per m2.