A bioclimatic classification of Chile: woodland communities in the temperate zone

The results of application of a global bioclimatic classification to Chile are presented. A total of 140 weather stations are assigned to bioclimatic belts on the basis of temperature and rainfall regime. In view of these assignements and of phytosociological data, a zonation of Chile into four major bioclimatic regions (Tropical, Mediterranean, Temperate and Boreal) is proposed. For the Temperate region, we discuss the distribution of the various climax forest communities with respect to bioclimatic belt. It is suggested that increased knowledge of the phytosociology of Chile will improve understanding of the climate of the different parts of the country.