Bioregions in the high-altitude grasslands of the Atlantic Forest, Brazil

Resumen

High-altitude grasslands (campo de altitude) within Brazil’s Atlantic Forest phytogeographic domain represent unique vegetation in eastern South America, harboring distinct endemic species shaped by eco-physiological barriers. This study aimed to characterize the biogeographical regions within these grasslands by identifying floristic patterns and endemic species profiles. We compiled an extensive list of flowering plant endemic species using floristic surveys, online databases, and manual curation, focusing on species restricted to campo de altitude while excluding those from adjacent domains. A network clustering analysis was performed to recognize bioregions and their most common and indicative species. A total of 378 species in 149 genera and 52 plant families were identified as restricted to campo de altitude, with Asteraceae, Fabaceae, and Poaceae as the most species-rich families. Five to eleven bioregions were recovered depending on clustering parameters, stabilizing at five regions in higher-cost scenarios. These bioregions reflect geographic and climatic barriers, particularly separating southern and southeastern regions. Our results reveal distinct endemic species compositions and lifeforms across these areas, highlighting the need for region-specific conservation strategies. Understanding the bioregionalization of these grasslands enhances conservation efforts and underscores the ecological significance of campo de altitude within the Atlantic Forest.

Citation: Dias Meireles, L., Cabral^, A., Vasconcelos T. N. C. & Colli-Silva, M. 2025. Bioregions in the high-altitude grasslands of the Atlantic Forest, Brazil. Revista Jard. Bot. Nac. Univ. Habana 46 (Número especial 1): 83.

Trabajo presentado en el XIII Congreso Latinoamericano de Botánica. Sesión Biodiversidad y Conservación.