Syntaxonomic update on the relict groves of Mirbeck's oak (Quercus canariensis Willd. and Q. marianica C. Vicioso) in southern Iberia

As relict traces of the Tertiary period, Quercus canariensis Willd. and the forests it forms comprise one of the most interesting woodlands, which prevails in southern Iberia with very particular edaphoclimatic envelopes. Combining phytosociological methodology with hierarchical cluster analyses, we aim to update the syntaxonomic scheme of the forests related to this species and the complex matrixes it forms with the hybrid species Quercus marianica C. Vicioso. We propose one new association from Portugal, in a total of four types of Mirbeck's oak woodlands, in Southern Iberia. We conclude the necessity to maintain high standards on taxonomic and geobotanical surveys, with major biogeographic knowledge; it is indissociable from an accurate analysis and comprehension on the functional ecology and structure of these woodlands, regarding its dynamics. Therefore, their high conservation value, related to its relict status, supports the integration of these forests in Habitat 9240 (Annex B-I from Council Directive 92/43/EEC) in order to ensure its preservation.