Frost Hollows as Interesting Areas of Geo- and Biodiversity in the Alps

Frost hollows are areas where cold air pools frequently form due to relief, resulting in specific microclimatic conditions. The different microclimate also manifests itself in specific ecological conditions where only adapted plant communities develop. These unique areas are of high conservation importance as they can provide suitable habitats for cold-adapted plant species that are not found in the surrounding landscape. Such microrefugia are known to maintain relict populations of some endemic species. It can be concluded that frost hollows are special areas in terms of both geodiversity and biodiversity. The chapter discusses the climatological and vegetation characteristics of frost hollows from the Slovenian alpine areas.