puna

Puna is a high-elevation geographic and ecological zone of the central Andes in South America, encompassing cold, arid grasslands and sparse shrublands that lie roughly between 3,200 and 4,800 meters above sea level. The term is used in Andean geography and ecology to describe the high plateau and surrounding uplands beyond the tree line, where climate is strongly influenced by altitude and exposure. The puna spans parts of Peru, Bolivia, northern Chile, and western Argentina, with variations in extent depending on local topography and climate.

Environmental conditions in the puna include large diurnal temperature variations, low annual precipitation, and well-drained soils. Vegetation is dominated by tough tussock grasses such as ichu (Stipa ichu) and a range of cushion plants and shrubs adapted to harsh, windy conditions. Wetlands called bofedales occur in depressions and provide important habitat for wildlife as well as forage for grazing communities. The ecosystem supports several high-altitude vertebrates and a diverse bird life adapted to cold, open habitats.

Human use in the puna has historically centered on pastoralism, with livestock such as llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas grazing on the grasslands. In some areas, agriculture persists in sheltered valleys through irrigation. The puna faces pressures from overgrazing, mining, and climate change, which can affect water balance and vegetation. Conservation efforts include protected areas and community-based land management that promote sustainable grazing and habitat preservation, reflecting the region’s cultural and ecological significance.