Plants grow where they do for a reason. Each species of plant responds to varying combinations of environmental factors, such as availability of light and fertility of the soil. Their propagules may either establish themselves and the plant may grow and thrive, or they may not grow at all under the prevailing set of site conditions. They may germinate but find the site and its environmental conditions marginal, in which case the plant might grow, although probably not in abundance. Each species has a set of conditions under which it makes optimum growth. Generally, assuming availability of growth requirements, species with similar sets of requirements will be found growing together. These recurring groups of plants form the plant communities of the province. In most instances, one or several species will assert dominance by being more abundant or more influential than the others. Most plant communities also have characteristic species, which, although not dominant, are found most commonly, if not solely, within that community type. Even though the vegetation of Nova Scotia has been heavily disturbed by human activity, it has been possible to define broad plant assemblages.Table T10.4.1 lists major forest plant communities in Nova Scotia, and Table T10.4.2 lists major non-forest plant communities.
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Associated Topics:Associated Habitats:Copyright © The Province of Nova Scotia, Canada |
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