The Ecology of the Cairngorms: Part 1. The Environment and the Altitudinal Zonation of the Vegetation

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Abstract
Cairn Gorm is a part of an elevated plateau including 4 summits over 4000 ft., on the north slope of which are 4 cirques, 2 of which contain lakes at just over 3000 ft. On much of the area are terraces formed mainly by soil slippage. Each terrace unit is differentiated into a graded series of habitats differing in moisture relations, exposure to wind, and in amt. and duration of snow cover. The upper limit of pines varies much from place to place and cannot be correlated with any obvious climatic factor, and in most places seems to lie within the climate permitting tree growth. Grazing seems to be an important factor. Under present conditions forest gives way abruptly to a Calluna zone without any intermediate scrub. This zone, dominated by C. vulgaris, extends to an altitude of 2700-3100 ft., depending on exposure. Above, Juncus trifidus is dominant in exposed situations, while in sheltered places occurs an Empetrum- Vaccinium community which merges into snow-patch vegetation.