Vanilla planifolia Jacks. ex Andrews distribution and actions for its conservation in the Huasteca Potosina

Abstract

Vanilla (Vanilla planifolia), one of the most widely used orchids since pre-Columbian times, is currently under threat and subject to special protection. The objectives of this research were to identify the current and potential distribution of wild vanilla in the Huasteca Potosina; and design actions for its conservation. For this purpose, consultations were made in herbaria, field trips, interviews with the vanilla producers, and participatory workshops with local inhabitants. A spatial analysis was carried out in order to get to know the environmental characteristics of the plots with the presence of vanilla, and their potential distribution was modeled. In the Huasteca Potosina, 28 sites were located with the presence of the taxon under study, most of them in traditional agroforestry systems and, to a lesser extent, in the relics of medium forest that still persist in the region, anchored to the tutors that provide them with the necessary support. Its potential distribution was estimated at 85.5 km² Germplasm without domestication processes and adapted to the environmental conditions that were identified, has the possibility of being conserved. The owners proposed wildlife management units for its conservation in situ.