Terrestrial Biomes

What are terrestrial biomes?

Large ecological areas on land characterized by specific climate conditions, plant communities, and animal life.

How are terrestrial biomes classified?

Based on temperature, precipitation, and ecological communities.

Where is the tundra biome primarily located?

High latitudes, primarily in the Arctic regions and Antarctica.

What are the temperature ranges in the tundra?

-40°C in winter to 10°C in summer.

What type of precipitation does the tundra receive?

Minimal, mostly falling as snow, under 250mm annually.

What types of flora are found in the tundra?

Hardy plants like mosses, lichens, and low shrubs.

What are some key fauna found in the tundra?

Arctic foxes, polar bears, caribou, and migratory birds.

What defines the taiga biome?

Long, cold winters and short, mild summers.

What is the average precipitation in the taiga?

300-850mm, primarily as snow.

What types of trees dominate the taiga?

Coniferous trees such as spruces, pines, and firs.

What animals are commonly found in the taiga?

Moose, bears, lynxes, and wolves.

What is the climate like in the temperate deciduous forest?

Experiences four distinct seasons with temperature variations from -30°C in winter to 30°C in summer.

What types of flora are prominent in the temperate deciduous forest?

Broadleaf deciduous trees like oaks, maples, and beech.

What fauna can be found in the temperate deciduous forest?

Deer, foxes, and numerous bird species.

What areas are classified as grasslands?

Prairie regions of North America, steppes in Europe and Asia, and savannas in Africa.

What is the characteristic vegetation in grasslands?

Dominated by grasses, with few trees.

What types of animals inhabit grasslands?

Herbivorous species like bison, antelope, and rabbits, along with their predators.

What is the climate like in deserts?

Extremely low precipitation (less than 250mm per year) and extreme temperatures.

What types of flora are found in deserts?

Sparse vegetation mainly consisting of cacti, succulents, and drought-resistant shrubs.

Which fauna are typically found in deserts?

Reptiles, small mammals, and nocturnal species.

What defines tropical rainforests?

Located near the equator with high humidity and consistent rainfall.

What is the temperature range in tropical rainforests?

Warm temperatures between 20-25°C.

What types of flora are abundant in tropical rainforests?

Multi-layered canopies with massive tree species, ferns, and epiphytes.

What are notable fauna in tropical rainforests?

A vast array of species including insects, birds, and mammals such as monkeys and sloths.

What is a key importance of terrestrial biomes?

They are biodiversity hotspots, essential for genetic diversity and ecological resilience.

How do terrestrial biomes contribute to ecological services?

They are essential for carbon storage, water regulation, and nutrient cycling.

What are some human impacts on terrestrial biomes?

Deforestation, climate change, and habitat loss.

What efforts are being made for conservation of terrestrial biomes?

Ongoing initiatives include sustainable practices, wildlife reserves, and reforestation.