HIGH-ELEVATION ANDEAN ECOSYSTEMS

Abstract

High-elevation habitats of the South American Andes extend from 11° N to 56° S. These geologically young habitats bear a rich vascular flora, which can be accompanied by abundant mosses, lichens, and hepatics in páramo. The vascular flora contains many, and often monotypic endemic genera. Highest species richness is found in páramo, followed by puna and southern Andean steppe. The high elevation flora has been assembled from numerous sources, and has involved long-distance dispersal, and upward and north–south migration of clades. Páramo, puna, and southern Andean steppe are overviewed. Some critical needs for future biodiversity research are outlined.