Abstract
Integrated information and systemic accounts of epiphytes in regions of the world have recently been compiled. The purpose ofthis paper is to assemble an account ofthe vascular epiphytes that occur in Mexico as a starting point for other studies. Information has been gathered from the literature, specimens ofseven Mexican herbaria (MEXU, CHAPA, AMO, IZTA, ENCB, XAL, UAMI), recent field collections, cultivated material, and personal communication with specialists. At present, this assembly comprises 37 families, 174 genera, and 1,207 species. There are 12 important families. Ofthe 42 seed plant families documented in the literature as occurring in the neotropics, 28 are found in Mexico. The total number of species is estimated at 10% ofthe vascular plant species ofMexico, which is consistent with the estimated proportion ofvascular epiphyte plant species worldwide. In spite ofimportant efforts devoted to the study of some of the families, e.g., Orchidaceae, this assembly of species with high biological and potential economic values, requires more extensive study. These plants are poorly represented in herbaria and live collections.
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