Patterns of Elevation Gradients in Plant Composition and Diversity of Pinus pumila Communities in Zalinkur Mountain

(1) Studying changes in plant composition and diversity of Pinus pumila communities along the elevation is significant for biodiversity conservation; (2) In this study, we systematically analysed Pinus pumila communities’ species composition and diversity characteristics on different altitudinal gradients in the Zalinkur Mountains, aiming to reveal their distribution patterns along the altitudinal gradient. (3) ① 37 plant species were recorded, including 9 trees, 12 shrubs, and 16 herbs. The species richness was in the order of herbs > shrubs > trees. ② The α-diversity of the tree layer decreased with elevation. The diversity of the shrub and herb layers decreased and then increased with elevation; (4) Elevation is an important ecological factor affecting the plant diversity of Pinus pumila communities in Zalinkur Mountain, playing a dominant role in the formation and maintenance of plant diversity on Zalinkur Mountain.