Landscapes with the Greatest Natural Heritage in Chiapas, Mexico

This research has identified the landscapes in the state of Chiapas (Mexico) with the best natural conditions by using the theoretical-methodological principles of complex physical geography. To achieve this goal, the biodiversity was assessed by calculating the number of vascular plant species for each landscape unit and correlated with the results of previous research regarding landscape diversity and the anthropization of vegetation cover. The results indicate that the highest levels of biodiversity correspond to the predominant and recurring landscapes. These geographical relationships indicate the influence of the geomorphological component on the distribution of biodiversity, which was quantitatively validated via two statistical correlations. It is found that the complexes of summits, hillslopes, and gullies in mountain landscapes of tectonic-karstic, tectonic-accumulative, and tectonic-intrusive origin, in temperate, semiwarm humid to subhumid, warm humid, and warm subhumid climates located in the physicogeographical regions of the Lacandona Mountains, the Southern Mountains of Chiapas, and the Western Mountains of Chiapas, all have the best preserved geographical landscapes. In recent years, however, geocomplexes have been impacted by society, which is particularly evident in the Northern Mountains of the Chiapas region. The results of this research are an important contribution to land-use planning processes, because they make it possible to objectively establish environmental policies in Chiapas. For instance, this research provides the geographic basis for modifying or promoting new natural protected areas.