Regeneration of plant communities : An attempt to establish a typology and a zonal system

The traditional climax model used in the past to explain the regeneration of plant communities is being replaced, but only slowly, by new concepts. The old model is based on the theory that, given constant climatic conditions, the same species will be retained. However, it is the exception rather than the rule for site conditions to remain constant over long periods of time. Evidence of this is provided, among other things, by the continuous changes occurring in the floristic record. Even discrete events of varying magnitude - e.g. a broken branch or an extensive fire - may cause changes which contradict the theory of simple reproduction of the species. In different ecozones, each having their own typical formations, very different interactive structures are responsible for regenerating the vegetation. Phytogeography, which employs a global and zonal approach, can provide an intellectual stimulus for developing new ways of looking at ecological problems.