Abstract
Baire´s karst is encountered on the north slope of Sierra Maestra. It is geologically and geomorphologically different from the rest of the Sierra Meaestra mountain system because of the development of "mogotes" and "poljas". Generally no soil type is typical of the region, air temperature varies from 20 to 24ºC and rainfall is 1,200 to 1,600 mm annually. Using the Zurich-Montpellier school methodology the two most important phytocenoses are described from Carso de Baire Hohenbergio penduliflorae - Guapiretum obtusatae and Rhipsali cassuthae - Hohenbergietum penduliflorae, included in the Synapsidi ilicifoliae - Coccothrinacion Borhidi 1996 alliance. The first is represented by an open, microphyllous, evergreen forest occupying the highest part of "mogotes" (karstic dome hill), whereas the second consists of shrubby vegetation growing on a 90-degree wall. Both occur under water and nutritional stress.
Key words:
Carso de Baire; karstic dome hill; syntaxonomy; associations; Eastern Cuba