Related to demarcation: demarcation line, Demarcation point, Demarcation problem See: boundary, definition, differentiation, discrimination, limitation, outline, periphery, restriction, severance Want to thank TFD for its existence?
Alpine plants are plants that grow in an alpine climate, which occurs at high elevation and above the tree line. Alpine plants grow together as a plant community in alpine tundra. Alpine plants are not a single taxon. Rather, many different plant species live in the alpine environment. These include perennial grasses, sedges, forbs, cushion plants, mosses, and lichens. Alpine plants must adapt to the harsh conditions of the alpine environment, which include low temperatures, dryness, ultraviolet radiation, and a short growing season. Some alpine plants serve as medicinal plants.
Plant communities are usually composed of a few species of dwarf shrubs, a few grass species, sedges, and mosses. Perhaps the most characteristic arctic tundra plants are lichens like Reindeer Moss (Cladonia spp.). The principal herbivores in this biome include caribou, musk ox, arctic hare, voles, and lemmings.