Physiognomy

Figure 1. Physiognomy of the caatinga
Art: Frederico Lencioni

The "caatinga", is an ecosystem localized in the semi-arid region of northeastern Brazil. It presents a xerophytic vegetation well adapted to hydric shortage.

The Seridó region, comprises part of the States of Paraíba and Rio Grande do Norte. Its vegetation is relatively scarce with the predominance of a herbaceous stratum composed by the "panascu" grass (Aristida sp), separated groups of cactus (xique xique, coroa de frade, etc.) and disperse shrubs and trees, principally of "juremas", "catingueiras", "pereiros" and "imburanas".

Today, due to deforestation (caused by wood and firewood extraction, coal production, etc.), agriculture (cotton plantations) and in a minor level of cattle exploitation, we find in the Seridó many areas with secondary vegetation, predominating grasses and legumes.
Figure 2. Intact caatinga in São José dos Cordeiros, Region of Cariri - PB in the drought season
Figure 3. During the drought season of the caatinga, rivers disappear. Here we see the river bed of an intermittent river
Figure 4. São José dos Cordeiros
Figure 5. São José dos Cordeiros
Figure 6 and 7. In these two photos, the green spots are the "juazeiro", tree that remains green even during the most intense droughts. (São José dos Cordeiros).
Figuras 8 and 9. São José do Sabugi (PB)

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