Chile Araucarias

Ecological characteristics:

The prevailing climate in the Conguillio sector is warm, temperate with less than four dry months. It has continental characteristics, with great temperature oscillations in the summer, accompanied by rainfall that varies between 2,000 and 3,000 mm a year and in the winter snowfall can reach up to 2 m in some areas. In the Alto Biobio sector an icy climate predominates because of the altitude, with marked steppe characteristics. The following forma- tions are to be observed: · Araucaria associated with steppe comprising chusquea spp. This habitat is exclusive to this region of the country, only to be found in the Alto Biobio sector. The fauna is typical of steppe environments. · Pure Araucaria and Araucaria associated with Lenga ( pumilio ), N. dombeyi and the Declaration date: 1983 Antarctic Beech ( N. Antártica ), which host a rich amphib- Surface area: 93,833 ha ian fauna, reptiles, birds and mammals and various groups Administrative division: Araucania Region, Provinces of of invertebrates. Malleco and Cautín The Araucaria is a very important ethno-botanical as its territory coincides with the distribution of the Pe- huenche people, who have historically used its seeds Human activities: (piñón) as a seasonal source of food, and continue to do so today. Recreational activities such as excursions, angling, swim- ming, skiing and environmental education take place in the area where there are trails and Environmental Information Protection classification: Centres. Conguillio National Park

Contact information:

Jessica Ascencio Jefe Sección, Depto. Area Protegida RB Araucarias Barros Arana No. 215, 2do piso Concepción Tel: 9-96441494 Email: [email protected]