Patterns of richness and distribution of Cactaceae in the Serra da Mantiqueira, Southeast Brazil, and implications for its conservation¹

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze patterns of richness and distribution of Cactaceae in the Serra da Mantiqueira (SM), a mountain range located in Southeast Brazil, and assess its conservation status. We compiled distribution data from the literature and 16 herbaria and plotted it on a map divided into grid squares of 0.5°. Richness, collection effort and similarity among grid squares were analyzed for the 33 taxa recorded in SM (five of which are endemic). Maciço do Itatiaia (in southern SM), Serra do Brigadeiro and Serra do Caparaó (in northern SM) are the richest areas. Collection effort and richness were correlated (R²=0.75). Similarity analysis revealed five clusters, one of which is composed of high elevation areas with a vegetation mosaic; the remaining clusters lack biogeographic significance, and are mainly composed of widely distributed species. Ten species had no records in any state or national conservation unit of integral protection, at least two of which are threatened with extinction. Species of Cactaceae deserve attention because several taxa are threatened and/or endemic, and because the majority of SM is environmentally degraded. These findings highlight the need for urgent conservation actions for the local biodiversity of SM.

Keywords:
Atlantic Forest; campo de altitude; conservation; distribution patterns; species richness