Asheville, a Temperate Rainforest

Nestled within the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville boasts an abundance of diverse ecosystems, from lush forests to pristine waterways. The region's rich biodiversity provides ample opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and study the local flora and fauna.

Asheville falls within the temperate rainforest region, which means it enjoys a moderate climate with well-distributed rainfall throughout the year. This climate supports a lush and verdant landscape, with dense forests of hardwoods like oak, hickory, and maple dominating the region.

The surrounding mountains and forests have an astonishing variety of wildlife. Black bears, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and red foxes are common sights. The region is also home to over 1,600 species of flowering plants, including rhododendrons, trilliums, and native orchids.

The Appalachian Mountains, of which Asheville is a part, are known for their unique and ancient plant species. The Southern Appalachian spruce-fir forest, a high-elevation ecosystem, features rare and endemic plant species like the Fraser fir and spruce. The region is also famous for its stunning displays of spring and summer wildflowers.

Asheville is crisscrossed by a number rivers and streams, including the French Broad River, one of the oldest rivers in the world. These waterways provide essential habitats for aquatic life, including various fish species and freshwater mussels.

The Blue Ridge Parkway, offers spectacular views as It traverses through a range of elevations and ecosystems, showcasing the diverse flora and fauna that call the area home.

Asheville takes its commitment to conservation seriously. The city and surrounding communities actively engage in preserving the environment through initiatives such as land conservation, sustainable forestry practices, and wildlife protection efforts. The presence of various nature reserves and parks underscores this dedication.

Overall, our ecosystem is a captivating blend of temperate rainforests, diverse wildlife, unique plant species, pristine waterways, and a deep-rooted commitment to conservation. It is a place where nature thrives and where the community values and protects the remarkable natural beauty that surrounds them.

Art: E. A. Séguy's Insectes, Plate 9 (QL466 .S49 1920), Special Collections Research Center at NC State University Libraries

Eugène Séguy (21 April 1890 – 1 June 1985) was a French entomologist and artist who specialised in Diptera. He held a chair of entomology at the Muséum national d'histoire naturelle in Paris from 1956 to 1960. He is also known for establishing the Diptera section at that museum. Séguy was first published in 1928. His style consisted of Art Deco and Art Nouveau. Seguy published many folios using the pochoir technique, which employs stencils.

WNC HATCH CHART

Notes on Ephemeroptera and Aquatic Diptera of Western North Carolina -

Botanical Gardens