Representativeness of vegetation types in different conservation initiatives in Oaxaca, Mexico

Abstract

Oaxaca shows an exceptional biodiversity, although a high rate of natural habitat loss threatens its conservation. Here we analyze different initiatives for conservation, their extension and vegetation representativeness in Oaxaca, until 2008. We compiled different initiatives from governmental, non-governmental, and academic and private institutions and analyzed their geographic overlap. Conservation initiatives were classified in three groups: two initiatives with support and recognition of the Mexican government (official conservation initiatives) and a third one stemming from indigenous communities known as voluntarily preserved areas. The results showed that the official conservation initiatives covered approximately 40 % of Oaxaca, showing 19 % of overlap. Official conservation initiatives adequately represented pine-oak forests; nonetheless, open forests, with secondary vegetation of shrubs and herbs are poorly represented. The conservation initiative showing the highest extension were communities supported by the Payment for Environmental Services Program, while the voluntarily preserved areas had the smallest extension in Oaxaca.