Study of Reed Grass (Calamagrostis sp.) and Achupalla (Puya hamata) as Indicator Species for Recent Fire History in the Páramo of Los Ilinizas Ecological Reserve and El Ángel Ecological Reserve (Phase 1)

This project focuses on studying páramo ecosystems, high-altitude tropical mountain environments vital for the ecosystem services they provide to millions of people, yet threatened by human activities such as agriculture, livestock farming, mining, and climate change. The study addresses the fragility and high biodiversity of these environments, particularly in Ecuador. The proposed methodology involves a detailed ecological assessment. For the Puya hamata species, the population structure of all rosettes will be measured. Regarding Calamagrostis sp., the height of the panicles and associated vegetation, as well as the proportion of dead leaves within the panicles, will be quantified. Furthermore, a comprehensive analysis of the soil microclimate will be conducted, measuring temperature using a digital needle thermometer and light penetration to the soil via a light sensor bar. Finally, the coverage of Calamagrostis sp. panicles will be determined using hemispherical photography.<br/><br/><b>Goal</b>: <br/>The main objective of the project is to characterize the population structure of the Puya hamata plant species and evaluate the environmental conditions of the páramo ecosystem, including detailed measurements of Calamagrostis sp. vegetation and soil microclimate.<br/><br/><b>Research lines</b>: <br/>nan