4.3 Factors Affecting Terrestrial Ecosystems

Abiotic Factors

Non-living components limiting ecosystem survival.

Soil

Thin layer supporting terrestrial plant life.

Soil Thickness

Rarely exceeds 2 meters in depth.

Soil Nutrients

Essential for plant growth and ecosystem health.

Litter

Organic matter layer on soil surface.

Topsoil

Uppermost soil layer rich in nutrients.

Humus

Decomposed organic material enhancing soil fertility.

Subsoil

Layer below topsoil, denser and less fertile.

Bedrock

Solid rock layer beneath soil layers.

Soil Acidity

Determined by parent material and environmental factors.

Acid Rain

Precipitation with elevated acidity from pollutants.

Water Availability

Crucial for organism survival in ecosystems.

Groundwater

Water stored underground in soil and rock.

Water Table

Boundary between saturated and unsaturated soil.

Temperature Variability

Influences ecosystem conditions throughout the year.

Conifers

Evergreen trees adapted to short growing seasons.

Grassland Adaptations

Grasses develop deep roots for drought resilience.

Aquatic Birds

Adapted for survival in diverse water conditions.

Mammal Adaptations

Species like bears adapt to seasonal changes.

Sunlight Availability

Crucial for photosynthesis in terrestrial ecosystems.

Equatorial Ecosystems

Receive consistent sunlight year-round.

Northern/Southern Ecosystems

Experience seasonal variations in sunlight.

Microclimates

Localized climate variations affecting ecosystem conditions.