Final answer:
The ethnic group occupying the highland zone of Zomia likely engages in agropastoralism and transhumance, mirroring historic patterns seen in communities like those around the Zimbabwean plateau. They are involved in migration for economic reasons and to earn cash through urban employment or seasonal work in other communities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of ethnic group that occupies the highlands zone of Zomia is not explicitly mentioned in the provided reference information. However, it can be inferred that highland communities in such regions typically engage in agropastoralism, often characterized by a transhumant lifestyle.
They manage a dual subsistence system, involving the migration of herds to different altitudes corresponding with the seasons to optimize pastureland and agricultural productivity. Looking at historic examples, such as the communities surrounding the Zimbabwean plateau, we see that agropastoralism and associated settlement patterns are influenced by environmental conditions and available natural resources.
Matters concerning migration and community binding are prevalent in these highland groups, with family members periodically working away from home to earn cash for manufactured items or seeking urban employment opportunities.