Bromeliads

There are around 2,500 species of bromeliads (University of Wisconsin Madison), though the exact number in the Amazon is still uncertain. Many bromeliads are epiphytes, which means they are non-parasitic plants that live attached to larger plants. This unique trait is especially important because bromeliads have leaves that are arranged to collect water, creating pools in the center of the plant. In the rainforest canopy, where water can be scarce, these natural water reservoirs become vital habitats for a variety of arthropods and other small creatures. As a result, bromeliads play a key role in promoting biodiversity in the Amazon.

It's also important to note that not all bromeliads are epiphytes; many species grow on the forest floor. However, it is the epiphytic bromeliads that have the most significant ecological impact.

References

Bromeliads Wisconsin Horticulture Division Extension University of Wisconsin Madison

https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/bromeliads