Latitude and altitude drive plant diversity changes in Chinese mountain ecosystem.
Plant community diversity in the Lvliang Mountains in China was studied to see how latitude and altitude affect it. Trees were taller and wider in the middle latitude and higher altitude areas. Evergreen trees grew first in higher latitude and lower altitude regions, while deciduous trees grew first in middle latitude and higher altitude regions. Shrubs and herbs thrived in lower latitude and middle-lower altitude regions. Shrubs had more species diversity in lower latitude and altitude areas, while herbs were not affected much by latitude and altitude. Perennial herbs grew better in higher latitude and altitude areas, while annual herbs did better in middle latitude and lower altitude regions. The environment changes due to latitude and altitude greatly influenced plant diversity in the Lvliang Mountains.