Distribución de la vegetación nativa en ambientes geomorfológicos cuaternarios del Monte Árido Central de Argentina

Abstract

Zonda is located in the Monte phytogeographic province of Argentina. The aim of this study is to recognize the geomorphic units, the identification of the species and the native species coverage in this area in order to identify the causes of vegetation distribution and its possible relationship to geomorphic environments. Morphodynamic and morphogenetic criteria were used for geomorphological analysis. Sampling lines of 50 m. were traced and every 0.50 m, the presence, coverage and species richness were evaluated. Four strata were identified: trees, shrubs, cactus and grasses. The results indicate the presence of 6 geomorphological units: Sierra Chica de Zonda piedmont, Seco de la Ciénaga River floodplain, Sierra Alta de Zonda piedmont, Cerro Blanco piedmont, Sierra de Maquesado piedmont and San Juan River alluvial fan. Ninety-seven species of native plants were identified belonging to 37 families. The analysis of the vegetation coverage shows significant differences (F(5, 91)= 1.1510; p= 0.001, n= 126). In the study region, the distribution of vegetation is related to different morphogenesis and dynamic characteristics of each geomorphology deposits unit, where vegetation intrinsic factors play an important role.