EPIPHYTE DIVERSITY IN PRIMARY AND FRAGMENTED FORESTS OF CAMEROON, CENTRAL AFRICA: A PRELIMINARY SURVEY

Abstract

In this study our objectives were to compare the diversity of epiphytes in undisturbed and fragmented forests, to identify the most abundant host tree species, and to collect specimens for the Uni- versity of Yaounde. To protect epiphytes in villages where these plants are often perceived as parasites (especially of fruit trees), the senior author organized conservation classes for local villagers who partici- pated in data collection at each site. Preliminary results showed that epiphytic flora was rich in disturbed forests of Cameroon and that preservation of forest fragments may benefit epiphyte conservation. The most abundant host tree species differ in both intact and disturbed habitats at each site. Human disturbance, despite reducing epiphyte population sizes, serves as a catalyst for promoting change (and perhaps a short- term increase) in diversity by increasing habitat diversity.