Terrestrial Biomes and Climate

This set of flashcards covers important terms and definitions related to terrestrial biomes and their relationship with climate.

Biome

A major life zone characterized by vegetation type (terrestrial biomes) or physical environment (aquatic biomes).

Climate

The long-term average of weather conditions, crucial in determining the locations of terrestrial biomes.

Ecotone

The area of intergradation between two biomes, which may vary in width.

Climograph

A graphical representation of the annual mean temperature and precipitation in a specific region.

Convergent Evolution

The process by which similar characteristics evolve independently in distant biomes.

Disturbance

An event such as a storm, fire, or human activity that changes a community and affects distinct biomes.

Tropical Forest

A biome located in equatorial and subequatorial regions with high year-round temperatures and relatively constant rainfall.

Desert

A biome characterized by low precipitation, which can occur in various temperature ranges.

Savanna

A biome with seasonal precipitation and dry seasons lasting 8–9 months, supporting large grazer animals.

Chaparral

A biome occurring in midlatitude coastal regions with hot summers and cool, wet winters, dominated by shrubs.

Temperate Grassland

A biome found in many continents, defined by seasonal precipitation and characterized by grasses and forbs.

Northern Coniferous Forest (Taiga)

The largest terrestrial biome, spanning northern North America and Eurasia, dominated by conifer trees.

Temperate Broadleaf Forest

A biome found in midlatitudes with significant precipitation throughout the year, featuring deciduous trees.

Tundra

A biome covering expansive areas of the Arctic and high mountaintops, characterized by low temperatures and permafrost.