Taxonomic composition and ecological characteristics of the endemic flora of the lower Duero Basin (Iberian Peninsula)

Abstract

The taxonomical composition and an analysis of four ecological characteristics of the 46 endemic species occurring in the lower Duero Basin (CW Iberian Peninsula) have been made. A comparative analysis of the results reveals that this endemic flora does not comply with the general patterns previously observed in other floras. Predominant life forms are hemicryptophytes (43%) and chamaephytes (22%). As far seed-dispersal is concerned, 54% of the endemic species lack any noteworthy adaptative feature. 89% of the endemic species are pollinated by animals (mostly by insects) and only 1 species is dioecious. Following binary classification of the above characteristics have been used to plot statistically significant associations.