Arizona is a state with diverse ecosystems, ranging from deserts and canyons to high mountain forests. Ecosections in Arizona are geographic subdivisions based on ecological characteristics, including climate, vegetation, and landforms. One commonly used classification system for ecological units in Arizona is the “Ecological System of Arizona” developed by the Nature Conservancy. Here are some examples of ecosections in Arizona:
- Sonoran Desert:
- Occupies the southwestern part of the state and extends into California and Mexico.
- Characterized by hot temperatures, low precipitation, and iconic desert vegetation, including saguaro cacti, creosote bush, and other desert plants.
- Mojave Desert:
- Extends into the northwestern part of Arizona.
- Similar to the Mojave Desert in California, it features Joshua trees, creosote bush, and other desert flora.
- Arizona/New Mexico Mountains:
- Encompasses portions of eastern Arizona.
- Includes mountainous terrain with mixed conifer forests, aspen groves, and high-altitude meadows.
- Colorado Plateau:
- Spans the northern part of the state and extends into Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico.
- Characterized by high plateaus, deep canyons, and iconic sandstone formations like those found in the Grand Canyon and Monument Valley.
- Transition Zone:
- Located between the Sonoran Desert and the higher elevation forests.
- Features a mix of vegetation types, including chaparral, pinyon-juniper woodlands, and oak woodlands.
- Madrean Archipelago:
- Found in the southeastern part of Arizona.
- Known for its biodiversity, with a mix of desert, grassland, and mountain ecosystems. Includes the Sky Islands, which are isolated mountain ranges.
- Central Arizona Highlands:
- Covers central parts of the state.
- A diverse region with pine-oak forests, chaparral, and grasslands.
- Chihuahuan Desert:
- Extends into the southeastern corner of Arizona.
- Characterized by desert landscapes with creosote bush, yuccas, and other Chihuahuan Desert flora.
These ecosections highlight the rich ecological diversity of Arizona, reflecting the state’s varied topography and climate. Each region has unique plant and animal species adapted to its specific environmental conditions. It’s important to note that these descriptions are generalizations, and there may be variations and overlap in ecosystems within each ecosection.