APES 1.2 Terrestrial Biomes

Terrestrial Biome

Characteristic communities of plants and animals adapted to specific habitats and climates.

Global Distribution of Non-Minerals

Influenced by climate, geography, altitude, and other factors.

Biomass Distribution

Dynamic and interactive, subject to change over time.

Major Dictations for Plant Growth

Precipitation and temperature, which influence the biome.

Taiga

Largest terrestrial biome, characterized by subarctic conditions and dominated by evergreens.

Taiga Climate

Short wet summers, brutal winters, and 12-33 inches of precipitation.

Taiga Vegetation

Includes evergreens, lichens, and mosses; soil is nutrient deficient.

Taiga Human Activities

Logging, paper production, mining, natural gas, and oil extraction.

Temperate Rainforest

Found in South America, South Africa, and southeast Australia, with moderate temperatures and high precipitation.

Temperate Rainforest Vegetation

Large trees, ferns, and mosses; slower decomposition rates.

Temperate Seasonal Forests

Located in Northeast America, Europe, and East Asia, featuring four distinct seasons.

Temperate Seasonal Forest Climate

Over 1 meter of precipitation, increased decomposition, and productivity.

Desert

Characterized by low precipitation and minimal vegetation, covering one-fifth of the Earth.

Desert Conditions

Hot days and cold nights, with plants having special adaptations.

Tundra

Cold, desert-like biome with low flora and no trees, found in polar regions and high elevations.

Tundra Characteristics

Permafrost, short growing seasons, and low biodiversity.

Savanna

Found in Australia, Africa, and India, with distinct wet and dry seasons.

Savanna Wildlife

Grazing and burrowing animals, scavengers, and many predators.

Shrubland

Characterized by shrubs, low biodiversity, and common wildfires, found in California and Mediterranean regions.

Temperate Grassland

Located in the Great Plains, Eastern Europe, and South America, with low average precipitation.

Tropical Rainforest

Found near the equator in North and South America, Mid-Africa, and Southeast Asia, characterized by warmth and high humidity.

Tropical Rainforest Biodiversity

High productivity and biodiversity, with distinct layers and rapid decomposition.