Species of the Quercus genus, its distribution and timber volume in Tlaquilpa, Veracruz

Abstract

The conservation of oak forests in the state of Veracruz demands programs based on information about their species ecology and their distribution. Knowing which are the sites that harbor this genus is a necessity to select and prioritize the populations that must be protected. However, a broader effort is still required in the field to identify the locations where each species grows. The present work was carried out with the aim of defining which are the oak species that are distributed in the Tlaquilpa municipality at the Sierra de Zongolica, Veracruz, and their volumes of timber production (m³). Results indicate that there are six species of oak: Quercus laurina, Q. crassifolia, Q. rugosa, which are widely distributed, and have a high volume of timber production; while Q. candicans, Q. glabrescens and Q. scytophylla have a more restricted distribution and gather less volume. The oak species identified in the municipality have constant participation in productive activities. However, they must have a conservation program to guarantee their permanence in the face of human activities that diminish their potential. This information is relevant not only in conservation programs, but also in forest management activities.