Distribution of the Genus Cedrela inEcuador

The genus Cedrela in Ecuador has four species: C. odorata, C. montana, C. fissilis and C. nebulosa. Cedrela was one of the economically most important timber in the past, due to its wood properties; as a consequence a substantial genetic degradation have occurred. Currently, three species of Cedrela are included in the IUCN Red List. In spite of their conservation status and priority, few studies related to geographical distribution have been done. Field sampling and herbarium compilation showed C. montana is restricted to the Ecuadorian highlands in the western and eastern Andean montane region between 805 to 3200 masl. Cedrela nebulosa is located in Andean region about 1400 to 2300 masl. C. odorata is the most widely distributed, occupying areas in the Amazon (200-1300 masl), Pacific (330-825 masl) and insular regions (350 masl). While, Cedrela fissilis is only found in the Amazon Region about 200 to 510 masl. This basic information about current geographic distribution and abundance of cedar species is primordial to generate sufficient tools to ormulate the strategies of management and conservation of these species in the country.