Biogeographic analysis of the American genus Echeandia (Asparagoideae, Asparagaceae)

Abstract

Echeandia (Asparagaceae) is an American genus of herbaceous geophytes. Its distribution is heterogeneous but concentrates along the Mexican Transition Zone (MTZ). We analyzed the species richness distribution and endemism of the group. We compiled a data base of 2,078 records obtained by revision of herbarium specimens, scientific publications, and electronic databases. Species richness was quantified under 4 different criteria. Also, we estimated the weighted endemism and the corrected weighted endemism index to detect centers of endemism. We identified 85 species and registered 74 in Mexico. The MTZ had 61 species and the Sierra Madre del Sur province was the most diverse with 39. The richest cell was located in the Transmexican Volcanic Belt and contained 12 species. In addition, 63 species (85.1%) present in Mexico were endemic. Weighted endemism showed 5 cells in the Sierra Madre del Sur and Balsas Basin in Mexico. In contrast, almost all the high valued cells of corrected weighted endemismindex were located in South America. The results were congruent with the patterns of the geophytes and endemic angiosperms of Mexico. The MTZ has a complex tectonic, volcanic and climatic history. These factors have promoted the diversification of several angiosperm lineages, including Echeandia.