Criptógamas epífitas (líquenes y briófitos) como indicadoras de la calidad del aire en la ciudad de Piñas

Abstract

Abstract: Air pollution is one of the main global issues, which is why the use of bioindicators (bryophytes, lichens, and bromeliads) serves as a model group to assess air pollution. These organisms are directly exposed to environmental contaminants, allowing them to accumulate heavy metals and particulate matter. The air quality in the city of Piñas was assessed using bryophytes and lichens as model organisms. The study was conducted in Piñas, covering five zones: Piñas Grande (Zone 1), La Cruz (Zone 2), San Roque (Zone 4), San Roquito (Zone 5), and a control zone on the outskirts named El Pache (Zone 3). In each zone, 10 trees of different species were selected, totaling 50 trees. The frequency and coverage of these organisms were estimated. Species richness was assessed using Kruskal-Wallis test, and community composition was analyzed using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and PERMANOVA. A total of 89 species of epiphytic cryptogams were recorded, comprising 54 lichen species and 35 bryophyte species. In the central zones of the city, the most abundant lichen species were Candelaria and Physcia, whereas in areas with lower pollution levels, the predominant genera were Teloschistes and Leptogium.