Southern Andean steppe

The Southern Andean steppe is a montane grasslands and shrublands ecoregion located in the Neotropic biogeographic realm, covering Central and South America, the Caribbean, and southern portions of Mexico, spanning approximately 124,779 km². Classified under the WWF ecoregion code NT1008, this region represents a distinct ecological community shaped by its unique combination of climate, geography, and evolutionary history.

Climate and Vegetation

This ecoregion experiences cool temperatures with high UV radiation and variable precipitation at altitude. The dominant vegetation consists of alpine grasses, cushion plants, and low shrubs above the treeline. These conditions create the foundation for the ecological communities found within the Southern Andean steppe.

Ecological Significance

These high-altitude ecosystems are islands of unique biodiversity, often harbouring species found nowhere else due to geographic isolation. They are especially sensitive to climate warming. The Southern Andean steppe contributes to the broader biodiversity patterns of the Neotropic realm.

Geographic Distribution

The Southern Andean steppe extends across Argentina and Chile. This geographic range places it within the Neotropic realm, one of the eight major biogeographic divisions of the world.

Notable Species

The Southern Andean steppe supports a range of wildlife, including Adonis' Ladybird (Hippodamia variegata), Anchovy-Eater (Carcharodon carcharias), Angel shark (Squatina armata), Australian Spinach (Chenopodiastrum murale), Austral ray (Bathyraja griseocauda), Baby Pondweed (Potamogeton pusillus), Ball Mustard (Neslia paniculata), Basking shark (Rhincodon typus), and 42 more species. Among these, 20 species are classified as threatened on the IUCN Red List, underscoring the conservation importance of this ecoregion.

Conservation

Like many montane grasslands and shrublands ecosystems, the Southern Andean steppe faces threats from climate change (upslope migration of treelines), overgrazing, and tourism impacts. Conservation efforts in this ecoregion focus on habitat preservation, sustainable land management, and protecting corridors that connect fragmented habitat patches.