GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION AND CONSERVATION OF NINE SPECIES OF THE GENUS Ferocactus (CACTACEAE) IN MEXICO

Abstract

The genus Ferocactus has complex taxonomy and phylogenetic and evolutionary history, affected greatly by geographic and reproductive isolation in its diversification and evolution. However, the number of species classified in risk categories is shocking, therefore the knowledge on species´ distribution patterns and their environmental determinants, as well as the processes of habitat loss due to land use change is important. In this paper, we used ecological niche modeling to generate potential distribution of nine species of Ferocactus protected by Mexican law, then using geographic information systems we obtained the bioclimatic profile of each species and the influence of climatic variables in their geographic distribution. We also evaluated the effects of the change of land use in their distribution area and estimated the safeguarded area within a Natural Protected Area. The results show that habitat loss is greater in the species whose distribution area is in the center of México compared to those living in the Baja California Peninsula and the representativeness of most species is low in Natural Protected Areas. It might be necessary to re-evaluate the risk categories of species, as well as coordinate efforts to identify potential areas suitable for conservation strategies or recovery plans and to promote the decree of new areas (or extension thereof) to protect the habitat of the species.