Review Article

Environmental factors shaping alpine plant adaptations

Pallavi Sati^1*, Sachin Dimri²_, Vijay Laxmi Trivedi¹ and M C Nautiyal¹

¹High Altitude Plant Physiology Research Centre (HAPPRC), H.N.B. Garhwal University, Post Box: 14, Srinagar Garhwal 246174, Uttarakhand, India.

²Sai College of Pharmacy, 26, A- Rajpur road, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India

*Corresponding author e-mail: pallavisati45@gmail.com

(Received: 01/02/2024; Revised: 30/04/2024; Accepted: 18/05/2024; Published: 20/06/2024)

ABSTRACT

Alpine ecosystems are distinct and demanding settings that are defined by severe climatic extremes, such as frigid temperatures, intense radiation, and restricted nutrition supply. The adaptations of alpine plants are finely tuned responses to the unique environmental challenges they face. By delving into the intricate interplay between temperature, UV radiation, soil conditions, and precipitation patterns, are valuable insights into the resilience of alpine ecosystems. Such knowledge is not only crucial for advancing ecological understanding but also for informing conservation and management strategies in the era of global environmental change. We have covered all the abiotic factors affecting plant growth and development in alpine and subalpine area in this mini review. It will be beneficial for researchers, industrialists, ecologists and agriculturists.

Keywords: Alpine and Subalpine plants, Climate change, Conservation, Elevated CO₂, Temperature.