The myxomycetes of Costa Rica’s Metropolitan Area: Association with air quality and chemical attributes of tree bark

Abstract

Background: Myxomycetes are spore-dispersed amoebae that can help answer ecological questions about microorganisms. Although they have been studied in Costa Rican forests, their presence in urban areas has been poorly investigated. Objective: To document myxomycetes in the country’s largest urban area in terms of air quality and selected chemical elements in tree bark. Methods: Twelve urban sites were sampled over two years using two isolation protocols. Data on air quality and bark chemical composition were collected. Correlations between variables and recorded response indicators, including pH, were evaluated. Results and conclusions: Thirty-two morphospecies were identified with greater biodiversity in the southern part of the urban area. Moderate correlations were found with copper and zinc levels and air quality variables. Multiple regressions showed a high correlation with the Shannon Diversity Index. An urban core of species was confirmed, and it was proposed that their presence in urban systems may be due to both primary and secondary ecological controls.