Floristic composition and life forms of aquatic macrophytes of serrania la lindosa (Guaviare), colombian guiana

Abstract

The serrania La Lindosa is part of the rocky outcrops of the colombian Guiana shield. Although the vegetation of this ecosystem has been studied, in this region and in Colombia the diversity of aquatic plants has been poorly investigated. The aquatic flora of the Serrania La Lindosa was characterized by general collections of lotic and lentic water bodies. 110 species in 70 genera and 46 families were found. The most important families were Cyperaceae (six genera/17 species), Poaceae (ten/fourteen) and Lentibulariaceae (one/fourteen). Eleocharis alveolatoides is a new record for the flora of Colombia and 38 for the Guaviare are reported. Most species were located on stream banks and the best-represented life form was rooted emergent. The number of new records shows the shortage of sampling of macrophytes in the region. This work shows the great richness of aquatic plants sheltered in this outcrop. This could have important implications for creation adequate conservation plans.