Seed rain. © Mayitza Ramírez Pinero.

The central coast of Veracruz is the most important raptor migratory bird passage in the world and there is high number of endemic species. The landscape matrix is made up of diverse plant communities standing out patches of Tropical Dry Forest (TDF). However, the best represented community is the pastures that have resulted from disturbance of the TDF for livestock management, agriculture and oil extraction.

In the pastures is common to find Diphysa americana trees. It is a very important species in the regeneration of the TDF, initiating the colonization by having a nucleation effect facilitating the regeneration. Regeneration of TDF in cattle pastures is determined by seed availability which passes through a number of barriers or "biotic and abiotic filters." These may decrease under the canopy of Diphysa americana. Through these trees I will identify some of the major filters that occur under the canopy and which of these filters is the driver factor in the establishment of vegetation. The study of seed availability, biotic and abiotic factors that poses influence on the regeneration of seedlings is essential for understanding the TDF regeneration. This research will provide ecological information to create efficient restoration and conservation programs.

The principles objectives of the project are:

- Know the range of required abiotic condition for the germination and establishment of woody species of TDF.

- Identify which TDF species are able to germinate and establish themselves in the absence of a nurse species and to be able to use them in combination with the artificial perches, in order to promote the abiotic conditions necessary for the seeds of the TDF that are reaching the perches to germinate and establish themselves.

- Recognize which TDF species are able to withstand the driest season of TDF and propose its potential use for restoration.

The results of the research will be shared with agencies involved in government and local community decision-making processes. Besides, with the results of the research workshops will be taken to the rural communities in the area of study. Working with communities and encouraging good use and management of their landscape, opens the possibility of increasing connectivity, regeneration and conservation of TDF ensuring persistence of their resources.