SCIE Ecology- Major Terrestrial Biomes

Tropical Rainforest

• grow where temperatures are warm year round and there is a lot of precipitation. These areas have the greatest biodiversity, or variety of species in one area.

• Example: Amazon Rainforest

Temperate Rainforest

• grow in a more temperate or average climate, but have high amounts of precipitation.

• Example: Pacific Temperate Rainforest which is along the coast from Alaska to N. California

Deciduous Forest

• are in areas where the climate fluctuates between warm summers and cool winters.

• Example: Eastern US near Appalachian Mountains

Taiga/ Boreal Forest

• is a coniferous forest that grows in areas that have cool summers and very cold winters. Trees that have needle-like leaves and are coated in a waxy substance. This allows the snow to slide off the branches in the winter

• Example: Colorado, Idaho, Utah, Canada

Grasslands

• are grassy plains that receive moderate rainfall and have warm summers and cold winters.

• EX: the Great Plains

Deserts

• receive the least amount of rainfall and tend to have hot days and cool nights. Some animals are nocturnal to avoid the harsh temperatures during the day.

Tundras

• also receive little precipitation, however they are constantly cold and the soil remains frozen year round making it difficult for plants to grow and thus for animals to live.

• Ex: Artic Circle