Vegetation patterns and environment of some alpine plant communities on Lakeview Mountain, southern British Columbia

Abstract

Selected alpine plant communities of Lakeview Mountain in Cathedral Provincial Park of southern British Columbia were examined, as well as the corresponding abiotic factors of soils and microclimate. Multivariate analysis of percentage cover data revealed three major community types, dominated by Kobresia myosuroides (Vill.) Fiori, by Carex scirpoidea Michx., or by Carex scirpoidea and Carex capitata L. codominating. Abundant small-scale patterns in the form of significant associations between species were detected in all communities. Possible mechanisms generating these positive and negative associations are discussed and it is suggested that the species themselves, as well as abiotic factors, may be strong determinants of vegetation patterning. Species morphology, especially the root systems, may be the more important feature. The relative competitive abilities of these three major dominants may be a critical factor affecting the distribution of communities at the study site.