Phytogeography of Antarctica

Distinguishes groups using mosses and lichens: large coastal outcrops of ice-free rock, Mawson Coast, Framnes Mountains, peninsulas near Casey Station, Windmill Islands, Prince Charles Mountains and floristically rich islands. The 36 species of lichens and 5 species of mosses form 5 groups, each with a characteristic ecological pattern. The species-groups correspond reasonably well with communities described from elsewhere in Antarctica. The authors accept the following existing phytogeographic subdivisions: Subantarctic Zone with 3 Regions (Macquarie, Kerguelen/South Georgia, Heard); Maritime Antarctic Zone; and Continental Antarctic zone with 4 Regions (Ice Sheet, Ice Slope, Coast and Drift Ice). -from Authors