Geographical distribution of Tillandsia lomas in the Atacama Desert, northern Chile

Abstract

We assessed the geographic distribution of Tillandsia lomas in northern Chile, from Arica (18 degrees 20'S) to the Loa river (21 degrees 25'S) and discussed the factors that might potentially underlie the observed patterns. We carried out extensive field survey complemented with aerial surveys and analysis of specimens deposited in herbaria. We detected over 30 Tillandsia stands most of which corresponded to the species Tillandsia landbeckii and can be grouped in 10 large systems. Other two species were also detected Tillandsia marconae and Tillandsia virescens, both of which show a restricted distribution in the area. Our results provide evidence on the wide distribution of Tillandsia lomas in northern Chile and its association with fog corridors.