Chapter 54- Ecology and Ecosystems

Levels of ecological inclusion

Organism, Population, Community, Ecosystem, Landscape, Biosphere.

Abiotic factors influencing terrestrial biomes

Energy (usually solar), temperature, water, inorganic nutrients, oxygen availability, wind/fire.

Climate

Long-term weather conditions found in an area.

Weather

Short-term atmospheric conditions of temperature, precipitation, sunlight, and wind.

What determines the types of biomes across the planet?

Climate determines temperature and precipitation patterns.

How does the Sun influence climate?

The amount of solar energy affects temperature patterns and shapes climate.

What role does latitude play in climate patterns?

Areas closer to the equator receive more direct sunlight, leading to warmer temperatures and tropical biomes.

What causes deserts at 30° latitude?

Descending air cools and loses moisture, making it dry and leading to arid conditions.

What is a rain shadow?

A dry area on the leeward side of mountains where descending air warms and loses moisture.

Tropical Rainforest

High precipitation and warm temperatures year-round, with dense vegetation and high biodiversity.

Desert

Low precipitation and high temperatures characterized by cacti and succulents.

Temperate Forest

Moderate precipitation and distinct seasons, with deciduous trees like oaks and maples.

Grassland (Savanna)

Moderate rainfall with dry periods, home to grasses and occasional trees, and animals like lions and elephants.

Tundra

Low precipitation and cold temperatures, characterized by mosses and lichens.

Boreal Forest (Taiga)

Cold winters, moderate precipitation, home to coniferous trees and animals like moose and bears.

Ocean currents

Distribute heat across the planet, affecting local climates and precipitation patterns.

What is the effect of prevailing winds on weather patterns?

Trade winds bring moisture to the tropics, while westerlies influence temperate climates.

Aquatic biomes characteristics

Saltwater and high biodiversity, including oceans, coral reefs, and estuaries.

Characteristics of freshwater biomes

Involves lakes and ponds, rivers and streams, and wetlands with diverse aquatic plants and animals.