Learn: Geography - Sustainable Biomes & Changing places Yr 9 2025

Whats a biome?

A group of ecosystems that share similar climates and typical organisms

Whats an ecosystem?

A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.

Whats urbanisation

an increase in the percentage of people living in urban areas (town/cities)

Biggest reason for changing biomes

agriculture

What is the primary characteristic of the taiga biome?

The taiga is characterized by a cold, subarctic climate with long, severe winters and short, mild summers, dominated by coniferous trees.

What types of trees dominate the taiga biome?

Coniferous trees such as pine, spruce, and fir.

What is the climate like in temperate grasslands?

Temperate grasslands experience moderate rainfall, hot summers, and cold winters, with seasonal droughts and strong winds.

What type of vegetation is primarily found in temperate grasslands?

Primarily grasses, including both warm-season and cool-season types, along with diverse native wildflowers.

What are the key features of tropical rainforests?

Tropical rainforests are characterized by high temperatures, high rainfall, extremely high biodiversity, and layered vegetation.

What is a defining feature of the tundra biome?

The tundra is characterized by permafrost, a permanently frozen layer of soil, and low-growing vegetation.

What types of animals are adapted to the tundra environment?

Animals such as caribou, arctic foxes, and lemmings are adapted to the harsh climate of the tundra.

What defines a desert biome?

Deserts are characterized by low rainfall (less than 250 mm), extreme temperatures, and specialized plant and animal life adapted for survival in arid conditions.

What is the salinity level in freshwater biomes?

Freshwater biomes have low salinity, typically less than 1% salt.

What are the two main types of water movement in freshwater biomes?

Lotic (flowing) and lentic (standing) water.

Why are biomes important for ecosystems?

Biomes are important for maintaining biodiversity, which is crucial for the health of ecosystems and their services. They also help regulate carbon intake mitigating climate change.

What is the soil quality like in temperate grasslands?

The soil is deep, dark, and very fertile due to the accumulation of decaying grass roots.

What is the typical soil condition in tropical rainforests?

Tropical rainforests typically feature nutrient-poor, leached soils.

What adaptations do animals in deserts typically have?

Desert animals often have adaptations for survival in arid conditions, such as water conservation and nocturnal behavior.

What types of habitats are found in freshwater biomes?

Freshwater biomes include lakes, rivers, streams, and wetlands.

What is the biodiversity level in the taiga biome?

The taiga has a relatively low biodiversity compared to other biomes.

Where are tropical rainforests typically located?

Tropical rainforests are found around the equator and the tropic of cancer.

What is a thematic map?

A thematic map is a map that highlights a common trend or theme.

What is the growing season like in the tundra?

The tundra has a short growing season due to its extremely cold environment.

Australia's biomes

temperate grasslands, deserts, tropical forests etc.

Population distribution

How the population is spread out in an area

Where is Australia's population mainly concentrated?

Along the coastline

Why is central Australia sparsely populated?

Due to limited access to resources and harsh climate conditions

What makes the coastline of Australia more appealing for population settlement?

Increased access to resources and better climate conditions

What is population density?

The number of people living per unit of area.

What is one reason cities have high population density?

Cities are designed to hold more population due to the availability of amenities.

What effect does the availability of amenities in cities have on immigration?

It results in a large influx of immigration to already densely populated areas.

What is urbanisation?

Growth and expansion of rural areas into cities.

What is a common reason for people migrating from rural areas?

To seek more opportunities and amenities.

What percentage of Australians lived in capital cities 75 years ago?

1/3

What percentage of Australians live in capital cities today?

2/3

What are some benefits of urbanisation?

Increased economic growth, more jobs, services, education, and enhanced cultural diversity.

What is one negative impact of urbanisation?

Negative impacts on the environment.

Push and pull factors

Climate, Congestion, Cost of living, Crime, Community, Pollution, Amenities, Opportunities, Family, Lifestyle, Leisure

Human impacts on biomes

Human impacts on biomes include deforestation, habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change, which disrupt ecosystems and reduce biodiversity. This also includes the overexploitation of resources.

Food security

Access to sufficient, safe and nutritous food

Challenges in food security

Economic/political impacts and poverty/lack of resources in a country

Strategies to manage biomes sustainably

Conserving biodiversity, restoring degraded areas, and promoting sustainable resource use through practices like sustainable agriculture, responsible forestry, and effective water management.

Agricultural practices

crop rotation (sustainable), burning (not sustainable), organic (sustainable), agroforestry (sustainable), overgrazing (not sustainable)

Irrigration

Watering crops