| This study analyses the flora and vegetation along the western fringes of the Donana National Park. This area is especially interesting due to its proximity to the Park, although it is not included in the protected natural areas in Spain. Nevertheless, it is proposed as a Site of Community Importance (CSI) within European Nature 2000 Net.;From a geomorphological point of view, the area studied forms part of a coastal dunes complex named 'El Abalorio-Donana' which consists of superposed wind deposits. This area belongs to the lower Guadalquivir depression and is characterized by a mildly undulating relief due to long-standing dune build up. The surface and subterranean hydrology is especially important in this area. Vegetation distribution is conditioned by subterranean hydrology.;The natural vegetation in the studied area has been intensely anthropized. The conversion of the original covered terrain to other purposes, such as agricultural or forestry, has resulted in the present greatly degraded condition. Tourist use has recently emerged as a new threat to the natural vegetation.;Nevertheless, 28 different vegetation types have been detected in the area. These vegetation classes are included in two climatic and two edaphic vegetation series. Both edaphic and climatic vegetation series have shaped the potential natural vegetation of the studied area. As a result of sampling carried out in the area, 637 plant taxa have been detected. Most of them belong to the terophytic Mediterranean Dycotiledons group.;A digital cartographic map of the vegetation has been derived using a sampling method. This map underlines the dominance of cultivated vegetation (crops and reforested areas). In this context, natural and seminatural vegetation is scarce. |
