Major Ecosystems of the Biosphere

These flashcards cover key concepts related to major ecosystems in the biosphere, including climate factors, biome characteristics, aquatic ecosystems, and more.

What is the difference between weather and climate?

Weather consists of short-term environmental conditions, while climate refers to prevailing weather conditions over a long period in a specific region.

What factors dictate climate?

Temperature and rainfall, influenced by solar radiation variations, topography, and proximity to water bodies.

What are the temperature patterns associated with solar radiation on Earth?

Direct sunlight at the equator and indirect sunlight at the poles, with tropics at latitudes 26.5 N and S.

What happens to air as it moves from the equator toward the poles?

Warm air rises at the equator, cools as it moves towards the poles, and sinks, creating high-pressure areas.

How do global winds behave in the Northern vs Southern Hemispheres?

Winds bend clockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and counterclockwise in the Southern Hemisphere.

What is the role of mountains in affecting climate?

Mountains influence climate by causing air to rise and cool, resulting in different rainfall patterns on the windward and leeward sides.

Define 'biome'.

A biome is a particular mix of plants and animals adapted to living within a specific range of environmental conditions.

What characterizes the tundra biome?

The tundra is cold, dark much of the year, and has low rainfall, with permafrost preventing tree growth.

List some common animals found in the tundra.

Lemmings, Arctic foxes, polar bears, and migratory species like caribou.

Describe the Taiga biome.

The Taiga, or Boreal Forest, features long winters and short summers with cone-bearing trees like spruce and pine.

What are some characteristics of tropical rainforests?

Warm climates, plentiful rainfall, high biodiversity, and plants like epiphytes that grow on other plants.

What is eutrophication?

Eutrophication is the process where a body of water receives a large input of nutrients in a short period of time.

What is the significance of estuaries?

Estuaries are biologically diverse environments where fresh and saltwater mix, serving as nurseries for marine fish and shellfish.

Define 'phytoplankton'.

Phytoplankton are photosynthetic algae that form the base of aquatic food webs.

What is the role of ocean currents in climate?

Ocean currents help distribute heat around the planet, taking warm water from the equator to the poles.

What defines the abyssal zone in the ocean?

The abyssal zone is characterized by extreme cold, intense pressure, and the presence of invertebrates that feed on drifting debris.

What is an example of a primary predator in tropical rainforests?

Jaguars in Central and South America, and leopards in Africa and Asia.

What are the main types of freshwater ecosystems?

Mountain streams, rivers, lakes, and wetlands.