XVI International Botanical Congess

The Valley of Zapotitlan, is characterized by different plant associations, the Izotal is particularly dominated by Beaucarnea gracilis, a succulent tree which is the phorophyte of several epiphytes from the Bromeliaceae Family. The present study analyzes the distribution and abundance of three Tillandsia species: T. califani, T., dasyliriifolia, and T. recurvata living as epiphytes on the trees. Five permanent quadrants 50X50 m were randomly selected at the Valley. All the trees and epiphytes were registered. Intra-interespecific competition is shown between them as well as some factors that affect their establishment. T. califani is mainly located at north of the tree (58%), T. recurvata was found located to the west (66%) whereas T. dasyliirifolia is the southest (53%).