Biomes

terrestrial biome

Large geographic land areas with similar climates and ecosystems.

tropical rainforest

a broadleaf evergreen forest found in wet and hot regions near the equator.

tropical grasslands/savannas

The lands of two seasons (Dry winter season and wet summer season), that is hot year round and predominantly covered in grasses with sparse tree cover.

tropical / seasonal dry forest

Biome that is warm and hot year round, with a distinct dry season when many plants drop their leaves. Generally found neighboring tropical rainforests between 20 degree N or S latitude.

temperate seasonal forest

A biome with warmer summers and colder winters than temperate rainforests and dominated by deciduous trees.

temperate grassland

biome characterized by deep, nutrient-rich soil that supports many grass species with hot summers and cold winters.

shrublands / chaparral

Dry environments containing dry-adapted plant life. Hot and dry summers with cool wet winters and fire dominated ecosystems.

temperate rainforest

a biome; cool temperatures and high precipitation typify this biome with more than 200 cm of rain per year.

taiga / boreal forest

very cold, stay below freezing for long periods of time and can reach down to -60 degrees Celsius. Short growing season, dominated by evergreens.

tundra

An extremely cold, dry biome with a short intense growing season and constant permafrost coverage. Areas are dominated by lichens, small shrubs and herbaceous plants.

desert

An extremely dry area with little water and few plants (less than 25 cm of rainfall per year). Has sparse vegetation and specialized plants that can handle arid conditions.

subtropical / hot desert

Dominated by hot temperatures, scarce rainfall, a long growing season and sparse vegetation between 20-30 degrees N and S of the equator.

cold / temperate desert

Typically found in the rainshadows of mountains such as the cascades in the US and the Himalayan mountains of Asia. Major vegetation is widely scattered shrubs and succulents.

prescribed fire

Controlled burning that is conducted during the cooler months to reduce fuel buildup and decrease the likelihood of serious hotter fires.