Fitogeografía

Fitogeografía is the scientific study of the geographical distribution of plants. It seeks to understand the patterns of plant species across the Earth's surface, the factors that influence these distributions, and the historical processes that have shaped them. This field is closely related to biogeography, which encompasses the distribution of all living organisms, but specifically focuses on the plant kingdom.

Key aspects of fitogeografía include mapping the ranges of plant species and communities, identifying floristic regions or zones with distinct plant life, and analyzing the causes of plant diversity. These causes can be environmental, such as climate, soil type, and topography, or historical, including continental drift, glaciation, and evolutionary events. Fitogeographers often study endemism, the condition of a species being unique to a defined geographic location, and migration patterns of plants.

The discipline employs various methods, including field surveys, remote sensing, and phylogenetic analysis. Understanding plant distribution is crucial for conservation efforts, as it helps identify areas of high biodiversity, potential threats to plant populations, and areas needing protection. It also contributes to our knowledge of ecological processes and the impact of climate change on vegetation.