Variáveis Filogenéticas e Ambientais na Estruturação de Comunidades de Lagartos da Bacia do Alto Paraguai e suas Interações com o Histórico de Fogo

Abstract

The distribution of biological communities is influenced by environmental, historical, and biological factors that shape their composition and diversity over time and space. Climate, elevation, and landscape heterogeneity play fundamental roles in structuring these communities, while fire and environmental changes directly affect their organization. This study investigated the factors influencing the species richness of lizard communities in the Upper Paraguay River Basin, a region encompassing the Cerrado and Pantanal ecoregions. Species occurrence data were analyzed from field surveys, scientific databases, and environmental agency reports from each state, along with environmental variables, including climate, elevation, and fire intensity. Phylogenetic diversity was used as an indicator to understand patterns of species occupancy and community structure. The results showed that phylogenetic diversity is the primary factor associated with species richness, while the interaction between climate, elevation, and geographic distance may act as a limiting factor for local diversity. Additionally, fire intensity exhibited a negative relationship with elevation, indicating that higher-altitude areas experience lower fire impacts. I highlight that, although environmental factors influence community composition, phylogeny has a more significant impact on species diversity. I emphasize the need for conservation strategies that consider the influence of fire and climate change on the region's lizards, as well as the importance of continuous monitoring to ensure the long-term preservation of these communities.