Biomes

Biome A biome is a large group of ecosystems in the same climax community Terrestrial Biomes – On Land Aquatic Biomes - Underwater

Aquatic Biomes Marine Biomes-Contain saltwater. The type of organisms present is highly dependent on sunlight. Sunlight is needed for photosynthesis Photic Zone-Sunlight can penetrate, Photosynthesis can occur Aphotic Zone-Sunlight cannot penetrate

Terrestrial Biomes Latitude influences the climate of an area Some latitudes receive more direct radiation than others Temperature and precipitation have a huge affect on the climate of an area

Tundra The tundra is a treeless area in the Arctic circle that is consistently frozen Little vegetation because soil is often frozen (permafrost) Organisms: Weasels, oxen, caribou, foxes, reindeer

Taiga Taiga-Lies below the tundra and is usually warmer and wetter Most of Canada, Northern Europe, Asia More trees than the tundra Weasels, squirrels, elk, moose

Desert Deserts are arid regions with high temperatures and little rainfall Little vegetation due to scarce rainfall Life includes cacti, kangaroo rat, coyotes, snakes, lizards, scorpions

Grasslands Grasslands contain rich soil, grasses and plants Dry summers  Little forests. 25-75 cm of precipitation Soils have high humus content Life includes: Bison Rabbits Deer Elk

Temperate Forests Temperate Forests – Primarily covered by trees in a mild climate Animals include: Squirrels Rabbits Deer Bears

Rain Forests Rain forests have high amounts of precipitation and high temperatures Near the equator, have a wide diversity of life Contains many species of life that are deadly and poisonous The rainforest is a very dangerous place