Size:
307,000 sq. km (119,000 sq. miles)
Habitat type:
Montane Grasslands and Shrublands
Geographic Location:
Western South America: Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and Peru
Conservation Status:
Vulnerable
About the Area
This ecoregion encompasses the south-central portion of the Andes Mountains and is characterized by a cold, dry climate. However, within this rather course, general pattern, there are numerous microclimates that provide the conditions necessary to support a rich array of well-adapted plants and animals.
Local SpeciesMammals found here include 14 endemics; among these are Possum (Gracilinanus aceramarcae), an Armadillo (Chaetophractus nationi), and Chozchoz (Octodontomys gliroides), the single species of the endemic genus. Wider ranging species include South American fox (Pseudalopex culpaeus), Guanaco (Lama guanicoe), and the Deer (Hippocamelus antisensis).
Threats
Conversion of lands to agriculture or for more extensive grazing may be cause for concern in this ecoregion.
Resources