A "sky island" typically refers to a mountain or isolated highland area that is surrounded by significantly different lower terrain, such as deserts or plains. These regions can have unique ecological systems due to their elevation and isolation, which can lead to distinct plant and animal life that might not thrive in the surrounding areas. The term is often used in the context of biodiversity, as sky islands can provide habitats for species that have evolved distinct characteristics due to their separation from similar habitats.
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