Terrestrial Biomes

Tropical rain forests experience high year-round temperatures and rainfall with a distinct wet and dry season. These dense, lush forests are home to the greatest diversity of species of any other biome.

Tropical dry forests are found in areas where a short rainy season is followed by a long dry season. This forest is mostly dominated by deciduous trees that have adaptations, like waxy leaves, to reduce water loss.

Savannas experience seasonal rainfall and temperatures, with slightly cooler temperatures and lower rainfall during the dry season.

Deserts are the driest biomes, receiving less than 25 centimeters of precipitation annually. The plants that grow in deserts, such as cacti, are adapted to establish deep roots and store water for long periods.

Temperate grasslands experience seasonal temperatures—hot summers and cold winters—and moderate year-round precipitation. The fertile soils support grasses, while fires and grazing by herbivores prevent tree growth.

Chaparral are characterized by hot, dry summers and cool, moist winters. The woody shrubs and herbs of this biome are adapted to drought and resistant to the frequent fires that occur.

Temperate deciduous forests experience seasonal temperatures—hot summers and cold winters—and moderate year-round precipitation. The forests are mostly made up of deciduous trees and diverse understory vegetation.

Temperate rain forests receive abundant precipitation for most of the year and experience mild temperatures. These forests are dominated by conifers, such as redwoods, and the understory is made up primarily of ferns and mosses.

Boreal forests are characterized by long, cold winters and short summers with moderate precipitation. The forests are made up of coniferous trees that are adapted to the nutrient-poor soils and cold, snowy climate.

Tundra is found in the extremely cold climate near the North Pole and experiences low precipitation. The cold climate creates permafrost, a layer of permanently frozen subsoil. Above this layer, a few centimeters of soil thaws in the summer and low-growing plants, like mosses and legumes, can grow.