The communities structure of lichens growing in Embothrium coccineum (Proteaceae) in Laguna San Rafael, Chile

Abstract

 Epiphytic lichen composition, richness, diversity and biomass on basal trunks o f Embothrium coccineum were surveyed in a forestry site in Laguna San Rafael, southern Chile. Samples were taken from ten trees in three sites, in a microclimatic gradient, where lichens species were completely removed till 2 m height. 45 lichen species were recorded in November 1997. Significant diferences were observed in the selected sites; the species number and biomass increased with the increasing moisture availabily o f the habitat. Sampled trees were identified with plastic labels and controlled three years and four months later. An important recovery of lichen diversity was observed, 16 species were recorded in February 2001, and biomass ranged between 35.27 % and 49,83 % in the selected sites. The highest biomass was recorded for Lepolichen coccophorus.