Factors that influence the general species diversity and endemism are similar for flora and fauna. But there are major differences in the distribution of species over different temporal and spatial scales.

Over short distances animals are much more mobile than plants. Animals can migrate daily or seasonally and can choose favorable microhabitats while plants are fixed to the ground. But for long distance dispersal, plants have a higher mobility. Their seeds can be transported by wind, water or animals over long distances and sometimes a single seed will suffice to establish a new population. Because of their passive dispersal, it is easier for plants to overcome barriers like canyons, water or unfavorable areas and to reach island habitats.

A further major difference between plants and animals is in the way they reproduce: Plants reproduce in short intervals (often annually) and produce a large quantity of seeds, each one a potential offspring. In addition some plants are able to reproduce asexually and vegetative reproduction is also common in plants. So they can adapt to special conditions in much shorter time intervals than most animals.

"Alpine plant biodiversity"

29 August 2011
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