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Espeletia pycnophylla subsp. angelensis, the angel of the north

Abstract:

Espeletia pycnophylla subsp. angelensis is a subspecies of the genus Espeletia, commonly known as "frailejon" native of Ecuador and Colombia. One of its primary settlements is El Angel Ecological Reserve. Because it is a member of the "frailejones", it dominates the reserve paramo, and helps to fulfill its essential function: To capture and distribute the water to the lowlands. It also has adaptive advantages that allow it to withstand the extreme climates of the paramo, as well as a high specificity in the height where it grows. Studies of this species show that frailejones are an ecosystem in themselves. In particular, recent research identifies them as home to several species of arthropods. Espeletia pycnophylla subsp. Angelensis suffers several threats related to alterations in the climate of its habitat, and an action plan to protect it, as well as its habitat, is of vital importance.