Natural regeneration of forest species in anAndean forest in the south of Ecuador

Abstract

Natural regeneration is a continuous process of self-recovery of forest ecosystems. The research was
carried out in an Andean forest in the Loja valley, Ecuador, with the objective of determining the
state of natural regeneration of forest species present in an Andean forest and the relationship with
physical variables. A permanent plot of one hectare was used, subdivided into 25 subplots of 400
m²; within each 20 x 20 m plot, subplots were nested to evaluate the existing natural regeneration,
according to the categories determined as follows: 5 x 5 m plots were used for latizal and 2 x 2 m
plots for saplings. To determine the floristic composition and structural parameters, all individuals
present in the defined categories were counted. 28 species were recorded, of which 19 are trees and
9 are shrubs. In the latizal category there are 26 species regenerating and, in the saplings, 21 species.
The species that regenerate in greater quantities are Palicourea amethystina, Piper asperiusculum,
Piper barbatum, Miconia obscura and Nectandra laurel. Canopy cover has a significant impact on
light penetration, which affects species. The soil slope and depth of the O and A horizons have a
significant influence on the diversity and abundance of natural forest regeneration. The observed
natural regeneration represents a good reservoir of species and individuals that guarantees the
permanence of this Andean forest in southern Ecuador.