XVI International Botanical Congess

Close to 50% of the native flora of continental Chile is endemic. However, the distribution patterns of endemics are poorly known. We studied the distribution of 2330 endemics in Chile's political regions, based on records contained in the Chilean flora electronic data base. Overall, and for annuals, perennial herbs and shrubs, highest numbers of endemics are found in the southern part of the winter rainfall deserts and northern part of the mediterranean-climate zone. Endemic trees are most abundant in the southern part of the mediterranean area. Controlling for area, regions in arid and semi-arid areas of Chile have highest numbers of endemics. Research supported by CONICYT Grant. No. 1980795 and an Endowed Presidential Science Chair (MTKA) (Chile.)