How can mountains be islands of biodiversity?

Mountains can be islands of biodiversity due to their unique ecological conditions, which create diverse habitats that support a wide range of species. Their varying altitudes and climates lead to distinct microenvironments, allowing for the evolution of specialized flora and fauna. Additionally, the isolation of mountain ranges can limit gene flow and promote speciation, resulting in high levels of endemism. This combination of factors makes mountains critical hotspots for biodiversity conservation.