Publication Date
Fall 2024
Abstract
Neotropical Quercus forests play a crucial role in fostering biodiversity, enabling water retention, and carbon sequestration; but are increasingly threatened by anthropogenic pressures and climate change. This research characterizes the distribution, health, and oral history of Quercus spp. in a rare neotropical montane forest located in Guadalupe, Chiriquí Highlands, Panama. Phenotypic health assessments were utilized in conjunction with interviews with local community members to understand the oral history and health of rare neotropical forest. The results produced an average health score of 72.79 for Mamecillo individuals and 75.05 for Roblito individuals. The health data suggests that the species exhibit good overall health, with some areas of concern. The lowest-scoring categories observed in both species were trunk discoloration, fungal severity, cavity formation, and abrasions. The study results present potential environmental and biological susceptibilities for the health of Quercus spp. in neotropical montane forests.
Disciplines
Life Sciences
Recommended Citation
Hagley, Hannah, "Health of Quercus spp. in a rare neotropical montane forest determined through a phenotypic health index in Guadalupe, Chiriquí Highlands, Panama" (2024). Panama: Tropical Ecology, Marine Ecosystems, and Biodiversity Conservation. 5.
https://digitalcollections.sit.edu/pne/5
