IB ESS Topic 2.4: Biomes, Zonation & Succession

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts related to biomes, zonation, and succession.

Biome

A large-scale ecosystem defined by climate (temperature + precipitation) and dominant vegetation.

Zonation

Gradual change in species composition across a habitat due to changing conditions.

Altitudinal Zonation

Change in species composition with altitude, such as seen in mountains.

Latitudinal Zonation

Change in species composition from the equator to the poles.

Primary Succession

The process of ecosystem development starting from bare rock with no life.

Pioneer Species

The first species to colonize an area in primary succession, such as lichens and moss.

Climax Community

The final, stable stage of succession that is in equilibrium with the climate.

Secondary Succession

Ecosystem development that occurs after a disturbance, starting with soil already present.

Human Impacts on Biomes

Deforestation alters biomes, agriculture prevents succession, and climate change shifts biome distribution.

Whittaker diagram

A climate diagram that shows the relationship between temperature, precipitation, and biome types.