Implementing spatial analyses to measure angiosperm biodiversity from the high-altitude grasslands of the Atlantic forest

Campos de altitude are high-altitude grasslands found in the mountain ranges of southeastern and southern Brazil, which are characterized by high species richness and endemism. Because of the difficulty in delimiting this vegetation type, measuring biodiversity patterns is challenging. Here, we compared the application of two methods using spatial data to estimate angiosperm diversity in campos de altitude: (1) filtering occurrence data by elevation, canopy height, location and keywords and; (2) the same as the first, however, adding a filter of campos de altitude in the vegetation type of the Flora e Funga do Brasil database. Also, we discuss conservation status, plant collections, endemism, vegetation data and similarity among 14 sites harboring campos de altitude. Our two resulting lists indicated between 1087 and 2398 angiosperm species and infraspecific taxa in campos de altitude, mostly belonging to Asteraceae and Poaceae and endemic to Brazil. Extrapolations of species richness suggest a potential number of up to 4000 species. Of the taxa assessed for conservation status, 53-65% are threatened or near threatened. The flora of campos de altitude is more similar on closely located mountains rather than on mountains with similar geological characteristics and origin. We provide an editable list online destined to seek help from taxonomists to generate a more accurate species list, to support advances in knowledge on this unique tropical montane ecosystem.

Automated summary

This article discusses the estimation of angiosperm diversity in campos de altitude in Brazil using two methods with spatial data. The results show a high species richness and endemism in these high-altitude grasslands. The conservation status, plant collections, endemism, vegetation data, and similarity among different sites are also analyzed. An editable list is provided online to seek help from taxonomists for a more accurate species list and to support advances in knowledge about this unique tropical montane ecosystem.