bicentric distribution The occurrence of a species or other taxon whose range has two separate parts. For example, the few endemics (see endemism) in the Scandinavian flora are mainly restricted to either one or both of two widely separated montane areas. If they occur in both areas their distribution is described as bicentric. About 25 species and subspecies of plants are involved. This bicentric pattern possibly reflects the former existence of nunataks above the late Pleistocene ice sheet. Compare unicentric distribution.

bicentric distribution The occurrence of a species or other taxon whose range has two separate parts. For example, the few endemics (see ENDEMISM) in the Scandinavian flora are mainly restricted to either one or both of two widely separated montane areas. If they occur in both areas their distribution is described as bicentric. About 25 species and subspecies of plants are involved. The bicentric pattern possibly reflects the former existence of nunataks above the late Pleistocene ice sheet.