Publicação on-line; Bibliography p. 1-10 (51 ref.); 4 tables; 1 illus.; Summary (En)

Abstract

This study aimed to characterize the floristic composition and community structure of vascular epiphytes in 13 green areas
of Juiz de Fora, in the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The calculated parameters were relative and absolute frequencies,
Shannon diversity (H’) and Pielou evenness (J) indices. 56 species belonging to 22 families were recorded, with the
richest species being Bromeliaceae (eight spp.). Tillandsia tricholepis, T. recurvata, Microgramma squamulosa, and
Rhipsalis lindbergiana were dominant (comprising 79.5% of relative frequency). Most species were accidental epiphytes
(26 spp.), probably due to an effect of the disturbed environment. The richest and most diverse area was the Parque
Halfeld (26 species and H’=2.2), which is also the oldest sampled area. There was a higher concentration of epiphytes
in the tree crowns, possibly representing a response to anthropic actions. The results highlighted the importance of
thorough studies to achieve a better understanding of this ecologically relevant synusia in such disturbed environments.

Keywords: Atlantic forest, Serra da Mantiqueira, urban vegetation, Zona da Mata.