Gran Chaco and Environments

The South American Gran Chaco is the second-largest ecoregion on the continent, following the Amazon. It can be divided into two regions based on rainfall patterns: the Humid Chaco and the Dry Chaco.

The Dry Chaco region spans a total area of 787,000 km2 and contains extensive interconnected natural ecosystems teeming with biodiversity. This region experiences arid and semi-arid conditions, characterized by xerophytic dry forests as the dominant vegetation type. These dry forests coexist with other forest types, including carob forests, and various forms of plant cover.

The native grasslands in the Dry Chaco region are known as paleochannels, which are former river courses that have changed their paths over time due to the flat terrain and sediment deposition. These meandering paleochannels resemble snakes moving across the landscape. As the rivers shift, grasslands emerge in the areas they abandon. However, these grasslands are currently under threat of extinction due to the encroachment of woody plants, primarily caused by excessive livestock grazing. Additionally, the traditional land management practices of the indigenous nations of the Chaco, such as the Chacú, have played a significant role in maintaining these grasslands. The Chacú involved controlled burning of the grasslands to drive animals towards waiting hunters. This practice was conducted in a regulated and harmonious manner, respecting the ecosystems and nature. Unfortunately, these ecosystems are rapidly disappearing due to agricultural expansion, urbanization, and the conversion of grasslands for other land uses.

In addition to forests, the Gran Chaco region encompasses other ecosystems, including palm groves. Palm groves hold great significance for various indigenous cultures of the Chaco, playing a vital role in their spiritual practices and beliefs, often associated with shamans and connections to other realms. These environments are also of high ecological importance for several species found in the Chaco, particularly peccaries. Peccaries rely on the fruits of palm trees as a crucial food source and play a crucial role in seed dispersal, aiding in the propagation and regeneration of palm trees in the region. The palm groves thus serve as essential habitats and resources that support the diverse ecological and cultural tapestry of the Gran Chaco.