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| Alpine
tundra ecosystem: above 3500 meters |
Taiwan's
alpine tundra ecosystems are roughly distributed in high mountainous
areas at altitudes above 3500 meters, especially high
mountain ridges or geologically unstable areas near such ridges. It
comprises two major alpine vegetation communities: bushwood, also
known as high mountain bushwood, and the herbaceous vegetation
found on gravelly slopes. The growth and survival of flora and fauna
in these areas are determined largely by the interaction of severe
weathering, which only allows small amounts of soil to accumulate
on rock formations; low temperatures; and an ice period that can last
as long as four months. The flora commonly found in alpine tundra
ecosystems include Juniperus Sqyanata Lamb.var. morrisonicola and
Rhododendron pseudochrysanthum from the bushwood community; herbaceous
Epilobium nankotaizanense on the gravelly slopes; deciduous Berberis
morrisonensis; and the Angelica morrisonicola, which emits a special
scent. Common fauna includes the Formosan serow, Formosan sambar,
Mikado pheasant, Flamecrest, and Formosan alpine accentor. Occasionally,
rare species can also be found
here, such as the Hsuehshan grass lizard, Alisan's salamander, and
Sonani's salamander. |
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