Population structure and demographic parameters of Pinus hartwegii in a high mountain forest of the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22201/ib.20078706e.2026.97.5740Keywords:
Regeneration, Seedlings, Persistence, Sprouting, Recruitment;, Damages, MortalityAbstract
In Mexico, the forests of Pinus hartwegii Lindl. determine the upper altitudinal limit of tree distribution or treeline, which are at risk due to both natural and human-induced disturbances, mainly climate change, and could threaten their population viability. The objectives of this study were: a) to analyze the population structure of P. hartwegii on Mount Tláloc, Estado de México, and its variability at 3 different altitudinal levels, and b) to examine the sources and risks of mortality. Twelve circular plots with a radius of 19.95 m were set up at 3 altitudes. All P. hartwegii trees with a diameter at breast height ≥ 1 cm, as well as the collar diameter of sprouts and individuals ≤ 1.4 m height, were surveyed and measured. In addition, sprouts, reproductive trees, damaged and dead trees, and the possible causes of damage and death were recorded. The structure of the forest revealed a continuous regeneration, similar to an inverted J. Seedling density was low, but sprouting density was high, suggesting the persistence niche as a complementary vegetative regeneration strategy to seed-based regeneration niche. Both niches are functionally complementary and ensure that natural regeneration and replacement rates occur at different paces over time.
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