I am a system-based researcher studying vascular epiphytes in the tropics. I try to understand tropical diversity using structurally dependent plants.
My past research has combined population ecology and ecophysiology to understand what limits the distribution of vascular epiphytes at a local level. We tested the importance of direct access to humidity and how it is crucial in extending lower distributional limits. In contrast, the absence of suitable substrate (trees) at tree lines likely limits epiphyte distribution. I have also dealt with host specificity: is the host species or its structure important for epiphyte diversity? As well as epiphyte diversity across different spatial and temporal scales.
Additionally, I explored other structurally dependent organisms like epiphylls and non-vascular epiphytes, delving into spatial ecology and the drivers of diversity and distribution. Building on this foundation, my current research focuses on utilising vascular epiphytes to unravel the complexities of tropical diversity. This work unfolds in two main aspects:
1. Data-driven conservation biogeography: I established the Epiphyte Inventory Group (EpIG) and curated the first database of community data for vascular epiphytes—EpIG-DB 1.0 along with Borja Jimenez-Alfaro (as co-curator). This initial database currently provides valuable insights into the community ecology of vascular epiphytes in the Neotropics. We are expanding EpIG-DB to its second version. We aim to update and broaden the database by incorporating synthetic community data, including occurrence, trait, lists, and phylogenetic relationships, with the DFG-funded project CONTINENT: Conservation in the Neotropics. Leveraging this dataset, we aim to comprehend the diversity of epiphytes on a continental scale, addressing questions related to their conservation status and endemism in the Neotropics. Ultimately, we aim to utilise the gained insights into biogeographical patterns to assess conservation priorities in the region.
2. Temporal dynamics: Evaluating temporal dynamics of vascular epiphyte assemblages is essential to my research. I was the first to address the variables crucial in the dynamics of epiphyte assemblages, emphasising the significance of ecological filters in the observed changes. Currently, in continuous cooperation with Gerhard Zotz, we are investigating the concept of "succession" in epiphyte assemblages through long and short-term censuses, drawing comparisons with soil-rooted vegetation, which has been extensively studied.
My future research envisions establishing and expanding the monitoring of vascular epiphyte assemblages across long-term forest plots in critical ecosystems across Latin America, encompassing lowlands forests, mountain rainforests, and cloud forests.
