Patterns of diversity, endemism and conservation: an example with Mexican species of Ternstroemiaceae Mirb. ex DC. (Tricolpates : Ericales)

The Ternstroemiaceae is a family of vascular plants with many taxonomic problems, basically in the delimitation of some of its species. Little is known about its world distribution and about the real state of conservation of its species. An analysis of the distribution patterns of the Mexican species was undertaken to provide information about the present status of species and possible conservation areas. Also, an analysis of the species richness, endemism centres, extension and location of the areas occupied by these species with a 1: 50 000 chart index was made. Finally, we propose some of the species of this family to be included in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and in the next Mexican 'Norma Oficial Mexicana 059'