Terrestrial Biomes

Tropical Rain Forests

Experience high year-round temperatures and rainfall with a distinct wet and dry season; home to the greatest diversity of species.

Tropical Dry Forests

Found in areas where a short rainy season is followed by a long dry season; dominated by deciduous trees with adaptations to reduce water loss.

Savannas

Experience seasonal rainfall and temperatures, cooler and lower rainfall during the dry season.

Deserts

The driest biomes, receiving less than 25 centimeters of precipitation annually; plants adapted to establish deep roots and store water.

Temperate Grasslands

Experience seasonal temperatures—hot summers and cold winters—and moderate year-round precipitation; supports grasses and prevents tree growth.

Chaparral

Characterized by hot, dry summers and cool, moist winters; consists of woody shrubs and herbs adapted to drought and fire.

Temperate Deciduous Forests

Experience seasonal temperatures—hot summers and cold winters—and moderate year-round precipitation; composed mainly of deciduous trees.

Temperate Rain Forests

Receive abundant precipitation for most of the year and experience mild temperatures; dominated by conifers like redwoods.

Boreal Forests

Characterized by long, cold winters and short summers with moderate precipitation; made up of coniferous trees in nutrient-poor soils.

Tundra

Found in extremely cold climates with low precipitation; characterized by permafrost, with low-growing plants that thaw above the layer in summer.