Elevational changes in a neotropical Fig (Ficus spp.) community in North Western Ecuador

Abstract

Differences in primary production levels at high elevations sites have a direct impact on the numbers, and types, of fauna that areas of tropical forest can support. We investigated the effects of increasing elevation on a Neotropical fig (Ficus spp.) community in the Andean Choco region of Ecuador. Results show that there is a significant reduction in mean density of fig trees (p = 0.01), likewise mean basal area decreases with increasing elevation (p < 0.05). Causes are suggested and the possible consequences of this on frugivores is discussed.

Keywords

• Choco
• Cloud Forest
• DBH
• Frugivore
• Los Cedros Biological Reserve