Spatial distribution of dwarf mistletoe in monarch butterfly biosphere reserve

Abstract

The genus Arceuthobium are parasitic plants of great ecological impact by causing the loss of forest species, in which it is affected the habitat of the monarch butterfly. The objective of this work was to determine the spatial distribution of dwarf mistletoe in Pinus pseudostrobus, through the use of spatial statistics (SADIE and Geostatistics), in 12 plots of four hectares, in the Piedra Herrada Sanctuary located in the State of Mexico. With the SADIE index, the spatial distribution was determined, in the case of geostatistics, semivarygrams, space distribution maps and the estimation of the infested area were developed. The results showed that mistletoe presents an aggregate distribution, adjusting to spherical and Gaussian statistical models. Infestations are not distributed at 100 % because there is not an uniform infestation within the plots, which will allow directing control measures in areas with greater infestation.