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Hong Kong is near the northern limit of the distribution of tropical
South-East Asian flora, sharing similar species and structure with the
flora of Guangdong Province. Despite its small size, Hong Kong has a rich
flora with about 3 100 species of vascular plants. Various conservation
measures have transformed the formerly bare hillsides and slopes into
impressive woodlands. Besides greening and beautifying the countryside,
woodlands are important habitats for wildlife and are essential for protecting
water catchments from soil erosion. They also provide recreational opportunities
for the public.
Remnants of the original forest cover, either scrub
forest or well-developed woodlands, are still found in steep ravines.
They have survived destructive human influences and hill fires through
their location in precipitous topography and the moist winter micro-climate. |
