Revista Ciencias Naturales

New Records and Range Extension of Laurus nobilis (Lauraceae) as a Naturalized Species in Southern Santa Fe Province, Argentina

2025-07-01T17:25:38+00:00

This study presents new records and extends the range of Laurus nobilis (Lauraceae) as a naturalized species in southern Santa Fe province, Argentina. The status of L. nobilis as a naturalized species was first mentioned in 1967 by Williamson in the province of La Pampa. Through bibliographic revisions, its presence is documented in diverse habitats, including urban and rural areas. The new distribution area presented here focuses on the district of Casilda (Santa Fe), where systematic flora sampling was carried out in two sites: the railway network and the Arroyo Canal Candelaria, identifying the species in both habitats. The results indicate that L. nobilis has successfully established itself, forming scattered populations, with well-developed individuals (up to 3 meters tall) and numerous regrowth. In addition, data are provided on its presence around the area in question, arising from asystematic studies and new iconography. These findings highlight the role of biological corridors, such as the railway network and the stream, in the dispersal and dispersal of species and the need to recognize the status of L. nobilis as a naturalized species in Argentina in the Argentine flora.

Infraspecific classification and geographical distribution of Opuntia elata (Opuntioideae-Cactaceae)

2025-07-01T18:32:32+00:00

In the studies of the Cactaceae Family in the Southern Cone of South America, one of the most controversial groups is Opuntia ser. Armatae K. Schum., mainly regarding the interpretation and identification of its entities. The objective of this work is to provide new information that allows a better circumscription of Opuntia elata Link & Otto ex Salm-Dyck. The relationship of O. elata with another species of the Series Armatae is mentioned, and a new variety is described: O. elata var. pyrrhantha. A detailed morphological description of O. elata and its varieties, images of its main taxonomic features, and a map of its geographical distribution are provided.

Vascular Epiphytic on Ten Phorophytes from the Yungas of Northwestern Argentina, with a Focus on Ferns

2025-07-01T19:44:52+00:00

Vascular epiphytes are key components of the species richness in tropical rainforests, significantly contributing to both biodiversity and ecosystem structure. The aim of this study was to assess the diversity of vascular epiphytes associated with ten phorophyte species in the Yungas biogeographic region of northwestern Argentina. Five to ten phorophytes with a diameter at breast height (DBH) greater than 30 cm were sampled across five localities: La Caldera (camino de cornisa), Calilegua National Park, Potrero de Yala, Quebrada de San Lorenzo, and Tiraxi. A total of 47 epiphytic species were recorded, 18 of which were ferns. The Polypodiaceae family exhibited the highest diversity within the epiphytic ferns. The most frequent species found on the sampled phorophytes were Campyloneurum aglaolepis, Microgramma squamulosa, and Pleopeltis tweedieana. The phorophytes hosting the greatest epiphyte diversity were Cedrela angustifolia, Tipuana tipu, Erythrina falcata, and Ocotea porphyria, whereas Nectandra angustifolia and Zanthoxylum coco supported the lowest diversity. Additionally, 76% of the recorded epiphytes predominantly inhabit the inner canopy of the phorophytes.

Contributions to Addressing the Institutionalization of Agroecology:

2025-07-01T20:40:03+00:00

Agroecology is presented as a sustainable alternative to the socio-environmental problems generated by the agroindustrial production model. It promotes food production systems that integrate scientific knowledge, local knowledge, and sustainable practices. In this context, the Territorial Agroecological Node (NAT) of Salta emerges as an intersectoral coordination space aiming to scale up agroecology despite weak public policies and institutional underfunding. This study aimed to describe the context of NAT Salta’s development and operation, characterize its stakeholders, and analyze the barriers to consolidating agroecology as a transformative paradigm. The study employed a qualitative methodological approach based on participant observation, interviews, and surveys of NAT Salta participants. The study documented activities related to the construction and validation of agroecological knowledge, support for commercialization, and the promotion of interdisciplinary and interinstitutional dialogue. Emerging challenges were also identified, such as establishing precise limits on what constitutes agroecological production and recognizing processes of transition towards it. The implementation of Participatory Guarantee Systems (PGS) was proposed to differentiate and value these experiences. In conclusion, for agroecology to transcend its marginal recognition and achieve a real impact on the production system, it is essential to strengthen spaces for effective participation and mechanisms for intersectoral coordination. These mechanisms must be supported by sustainable public policies adapted to the particularities of each territory.

Virgilio Nuñez (1959 - 2024)

2025-07-01T21:14:13+00:00

En memoria y reconocimiento, la comunidad académica de la Facultad de Ciencias Naturales rinde homenaje al Dr. Virgilio Núñez, quien no solo fue docente, investigador y gestor institucional, sino también un colega entrañable y una persona íntegra.

Revista Completa

2025-07-01T21:27:02+00:00