Una nueva especie de Prosopis para el Norte de Chile

Abstract

Various unpublished studies carried out by the Corporacion de Fomento de la Produccion and the University of Chile during the last 3-4 years have called attention to the special properties of a tree growing on the Pampa del Tamarugal. The species is Prosopis tamarugo Phil , (section Cavenicarpa Bk.) which is endemic to the Tarapacá Province in northern Chile. The special properties of this tree which has excited so much interest are its ability to produce large crops of fruits which have supported a stacking rate of sheep higher than that achieved in any part of the country, despite the complete lack of rainfall. During the course of vegetation and floristic studies within the region seven species of Prosopis were encountered. Among them, one appeared to be a new entity which the autor proposes to call Prosopis burkartii nov. sp. It appears that the new species is related both to P. tamarugo and P. strombulifera. Anatomical, cariological and palinological studies axe under way. Forage value is limited due to growth habit and low fruit production b u t it may have a place as a psammophila and on salty soils. Prosopis burkartii is located within the key of Prosopis species occurring in Chile and an hypothesis of origin is discussed. Photographs and an analytical drawing are included.