Distribution of global large scale ecosystems

Distribution of Ecosystems

Local Factors Affecting Distribution

• Climate: Main influence on ecosystems (rainfall, temperature, sunshine hours)

• Altitude: Higher altitudes lead to colder temperatures, limiting vegetation and animal species.

• Soil Type: Affects biodiversity; nutrient-rich soils support more life.

Biomes Defined

• Biomes contain adapted fauna and flora.

• Defined by abiotic factors: climate, relief, geology, soils, vegetation.

Types of Biomes

1. Tropical Rainforest

   • Location: 23.5° N to 23.5° S

   • Characteristics: Hot, wet, dense vegetation, poor soils, high biodiversity.

2. Tropical Grassland (Savanna)

   • Location: 5° to 15° N&S

   • L Characteristics: Hot with wet/dry seasons, grass and scrub vegetation, thin nutrient-rich soils.

3. Desert

   • Location: 15-30° N&S

   • Characteristics: Low rainfall (<250mm), sparse vegetation, extreme temperature range, nutrient-poor soils.

4. Mediterranean

   • Location: 30-40° N&S

   • Characteristics: Hot, dry summers; warm, wet winters; scrub vegetation.

5. Mixed/Deciduous Forest (Temperate Forests)

   • Location: 40-60° N&S

   • Characteristics: Four seasons, rich deciduous woodlands, thick, nutrient-rich soils.

6. Temperate Grassland

   • Location: 40-60° N&S

   • Characteristics: Hot summers, cold winters, few trees, thick, nutrient-rich soils.

7. Coniferous Forest (Taiga/Boreal Forest)

   • Location: 60° N and higher altitudes

   • Characteristics: Long, cold winters, thin, nutrient-poor soils, evergreen trees.

8. Tundra

   • Location: Above 60° N

   • Characteristics: Below freezing for most of the year, low precipitation, thin, nutrient-poor soils, permafrost.

9. Montane

   • Characteristics: Very cold, thin soils, limited vegetation.

10. Polar

    • Characteristics: Very cold, permanent or semi-permanent ice.