Scotland's Earth Heritage and Landscape

Biogeography

The distribution and composition of animal and plant communities are influenced by environmental conditions, such as geology, soils, topography and climate.

With its variety of land forms and climate the Scottish scene is characterised by a diversity of plant and animal communities.

To assist Scottish Natural Heritage in its work of conserving and enhancing Scotland's natural heritage, the patterns of zonation of the flora and fauna have been explored and are described.

Understanding biogeography, and the identification of zones, is one step towards the definition of 'Natural Heritage Futures' which will reflect both the natural and cultural diversity of Scotland.