by Gabriella Bianchi

The orography of an alpine valley, such as the Valmalenco, is the factor which has most influence on the types of landscape. Altitudinal zonation, in particular, which determines a climatic gradient, results in a sequence of broadleaved woods, conifer woods, natural pastures and meadows and alpine-nival environments throughout the valley, from the bottom to the tops of the peaks. The limit between these landscapes can vary depending on slope exposure, whereas various types of vegetation will grow within them depending on the micro-climate conditions and on whether the geological substrate is acid or alkaline. The different habitats created in this way are home to a rich, diverse fauna.