Abstrakt: |
Abstract: A phytosociological revision of the Cynosurus cristatus grasslands in the Iberian Peninsula is presented. Resampling techniques and numerical and indicator species analysis were applied to assess the diagnostic species of the community types recognized and the ecological patterns that best explain their floristic composition. The main patterns of variation in species composition may be explained by a complex of biogeographic, bioclimatic, hydrological and lithological factors. Mediterraneity (expressed by the ombrothermic index of the two consecutive warmest months of the year) was an important factor governing species composition. Indicator species analysis considering all possible combinations of groups provided the pattern of the diagnostic species among communities, stressing the biogeographic ranges of the community types recognized. In conclusion, a syntaxonomical classification of Cynosurion grasslands in the Iberian Peninsula is proposed, including a new association (Phleo nodosi-Cynosuretum cristati) distributed mainly in the southern Iberian mountain system. |