About the flora of Antofagasta de la Sierra, Catamarca, Argentina. Environment and palaeo-environment

Abstract

This paper integrates archaeobotanical research conducted in Antofagasta de la Sierra based on the identification, anatomy, and use of both present plant resources and archaeological plant remains, recovered during fieldwork between 1994 and 2000. Transects starting from the archaeological sites, the surrounding plant communities, and the species found are described. Characterization of present plant diversity also included the popular name and actual use of every species. Archaeological plant remains were identified by anatomy in comparison with present plant species in the studied area and their anatomical characters are here described and documented with digital images taken with compound microscope (bright field) and scanning electron microscope. Finally, discussion includes past and present use of every species recovered in the archaeological sites from Antofagasta de la Sierra, highlighting those aspects that imply change or continuity through time.