Phytosociological studies in the Great Chaco: structure, floristic composition and variability of the Schinopsis balansae forest in the humid boreal Chaco, Paraguay

Abstract

A description of the forest of Schinopsis balansae is presented, including an analysis of its structure, composition and floristic variability. The sampling site was located within the forest-palm savanna mosaic in the humid Chaco. Quantitative data was determined in order to calculate the Importance Value Index that included the abundance, frequency and dominance of the species. The Diversity Index was also calculated and compared with that of other forests in the region. Results indicate that this forest is a Fabaceae-Anacardiaceae-Arecaceae complex with very characteristic edapho-botanic associations, and that it floristically constitutes a mixed and transitional forest with other plant formations of South America.