APPENDIX 



comparatively recent epoch in which the mountain attained its great 

 elevation. 



The special climatic conditions of the summits of Kina Balu may have 

 proved an obstacle both to the derivation of numerous forms from 

 mountains of temperate regions, and to an expansion of those of the low 

 regions above which the great mountain rises. Rains are very copious 

 on its summit, and heavy mists are almost permanent. The temperature 

 is very uniform throughout the year, but always very low at night. If 

 therefore vegetation is favoured by the heat of the day, it finds a 

 permanent obstacle in the constant coldness of the nights, whilst it 

 cannot profit from a period of rest, as happens in cold countries. 

 Such conditions differ from those existing on any elevated mountain 

 of higher latitudes. 



If the elevation of Kina Balu to its present height had happened 

 at a very remote geological epoch, when the plasmative period was in 

 full force, I am confident that a large number of characteristic types 

 would not be wanting there. I also believe that under such circumstances 

 even the few types which had gained a footing would have produced 

 numerous adaptation-forms peculiar to the great mountain. 



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