Epiphytic plants as NTFPs from the forest canopies: Priorities for management and conservation

Abstract

A wide range of canopy plants are harvested for their economic and cultural value, yet little is known about their the impacts of harvest on populations of vascular and non-vascular epiphytic plants, the canopy species that depend on them, and their ecosystems. In addition, understanding epiphyte harvest and its effects necessitates the study of cultural and socioeconomic patterns of use and trade, in addition to biological data, yet very few studies address that. Existing research on the epiphyte market indicate that a high diversity and volume of species are traded. This is specifically important because it can strengthen conservation efforts since most of these species are listed under CITES including the Orchidaceae. We review what we know to date about the harvest and trade in the forest canopy, focusing on four categories of epiphytic plants: orchids, bromeliads, ferns, and nonvascular plants. We conclude by identifying research priorities that address the key knowledge gaps identified in the review.