Floristic Composition and Diversity Along a Successional Gradient in Andean Montane Forests, Southwestern Colombia

Tropical Andean forests are biodiversity hotspots that have been transformed by anthropogenic activities, making ecosystem regeneration and restoration essential for their recovery. This study evaluated floristic composition, forest structure, and diversity in three land cover types within tropical Andean ecosystems: riparian forest (RF), natural regeneration (RN), and ecological restoration areas (RE). Vegetation was inventoried using standardized plots, recording species composition, diameter, and height. Basal area, size class distribution, and vertical structure were estimated. The Shan-non-Wiener and Simpson indices were evaluated. RF exhibited greater structural com-plexity, a larger basal area, and defined vertical stratification, indicating advanced suc-cessional stages and functional stability. NR showed the highest diversity values and a predominance of individuals in lower diameter and height classes, reflecting active re-cruitment and intermediate successional stages. Segment E exhibited lower diversity and intermediate structural development, consistent with shorter recovery periods and limitations in restoration design. Overall, the integration of floristic, structural, and diversity attributes indicates distinct successional trajectories, conditioned by land-use history, disturbance intensity, and environmental heterogeneity. These findings high-light the great potential for natural regeneration under reduced anthropogenic pressure and emphasize the need to integrate passive and active restoration strategies to enhance biodiversity and resilience in Andean tropical forests.