Introduction to Biomes

The Rule of Climatic Similarity Similar environments lead to the evolution of organisms similar in form and function and to similar ecosystems This rule leads to the concept of the biome Biomes are the major regional groupings of plants and animals discernible at a global scale.

To understand each biome, we need to know: The global distribution pattern The general characteristics of the climate and specific temperature and/or precipitation patterns. Other aspects of the physical environment that can effect plant growth The soil order(s) that characterize the biome The dominant, characteristic, and unique growth forms of the vegetation. The types of animals

Species Types in Biomes Exotic species – a species introduced into a new geographic area Invasive species – species not native to an area that are particularly aggressive and problem causing Endemic (native) species – a species that is native to a particular area and not native elsewhere Cosmopolitan species – a species with a broad distribution, occurring all over the world whenever the environment is appropriate