Everything about Polylepis totally explained
Polylepis is a genus of trees and shrubs restricted to the
Andes of
South America. The genus belongs to the
Rosaceae family and to the tribe
Sanguisorbeae. It is wind-pollinated and can be recognized by its pinnate leaves and a multi-layered, papery bark, the latter feature also prompting its scientific name, a combination of Greek and Latin meaning "many-scales".
Distribution
Polylepis species frequently occur at or above the natural
tree line in the Andes.
Polylepis tarapacana is especially remarkable for being the woody plant occurring at the highest elevations worldwide. It forms monotypic stands at 3,800 - 4,500
m.a.s.l. (12,000-15,000 feet
above sea level), far above the natural treeline which is typically between 3,200-3,5000 m.a.s.l (10,000-11,000 feet above sea level). These
Polylepis forests are separated by the true treeline of the forests of the humid
yungas or dry
Interandean valles by shrubs or grasses of the
puna.
Controversy exists between tropical ecologists whether its currently fragmented distribution is natural or the result of human land-use. Some scientists believe that much of the open grasslands of the Andean
altiplano that currently separate isolated
Polylepis forests were in fact one continuous forests before early native Andean peoples cleared or burned the ancient forests.
Conservation issues
Polylepis forests exist primarily as small, widely isolated fragments, which are being rapidly depleted by rural communities. Remaining
Polylepis forests are used for firewood and building material and provide protection against
erosion and habitats for endangered animals. In some countries,
conservation and
reforestation measures are underway.
Taxonomic History
The genus has a complicated taxonomic history. Researchers have variously regarded it as comprising 15 to more than 30 species. The last treatment recognizes 28 species.
Species include
Further Information
Get more info on 'Polylepis'.
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