Biogeographical patterns of grasses (Poaceae) indigenous to South Africa, Lesotho and Eswatini

The ecological and economical importance of African grasses in sustaining animal production prompted studies to quantify the wealth grass genetic resources indigenous southern Africa. Plant collection occurrence data were extracted from two datasets, BODATSA PHYTOBAS, analysed establish biogeographical patterns flora South Africa, Lesotho Eswatini. A total 1 648 quarter degree grid cells, representing 674 species, used an agglomerative hierarchical clustering determine units being referred as grasschoria. Six distinct groups formed, mainly following existing biome vegetation units, termed Grassland, Indian Ocean Coastal Belt, Fynbos, Savanna, Central Arid Region Succulent Karoo description focuses on associated phytochoria, floristic links, key climate soil properties. main gradient distinguishing grasschoria was a rainfall-temperature gradient. collection, conservation breeding pasture species adapted especially arid semi-arid environments, could be managed more efficiently by using these results, but also calling need describe label infraspecific variants, including ecotypes.