sentences:  In Ecuador it has been introduced from Peru, and this may be detrimental because it hybridises readily with the local species of "Polylepis", of which there are eight, including the endemic species "Polylepis lanuginosa".The "Polyepsis" forest plays an important role in the ecosystem of the region, acting as a sponge to retain moisture.The Aymara people, the indigenous people of this region, call the tree "queñua" and use the timber for fuel, for roofing their huts and for making charcoal.