Monkey puzzle  (Araucaria araucana)

Range

Endemic to Chile and Argentina in South America. This species is found in the Andes Mountains that separate these two countries. The range extends from 900 metres above sea level to the tree line at 1,800 metres (4). Two additional populations are found in the coastal mountain range of Chile known as the Cordillera de Nahuelbuta (4); these coastal populations are thought to be genetically distinct from the Andean trees (7).

Habitat

These trees cast a unique vista in the mountainous regions where they are found, their tall, straight trunks being highly unusual at altitude. They are often found in mixed forests with the deciduous Nothofagus pumilio; the taller monkey puzzle trees emerging above the canopy of these smaller natives (4).

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