Grassland Relaxation Travecology and Co.

Deep and fertile soil due to buildup of dead branching stems and roots Dominated by few grass species due to fire, drought, grazing Large herbivores Features

Climate ● Cool Winters ● Moderate Spring/Fall ● Hot summers ● Dry Winters ● Wet Summers

Spring Visits ● Blooming flowers ● Moderate temperatures (60-80 F) ● Active Wildlife

UNIQUE FEATURES ● Basically only grass can grow ● On every continent except Antarctica ● Strong winds blow topsoil during droughts causing dust storms

Big Bluestem grass Turkey Feet, Beard Grass Bison and Coyotes are common grassland creatures

BISON: have broad, flat- topped teeth and digestive systems especially adapted to feed on grasses

Many plants grow from deep underground grasses have narrow leaves that lose less water to evaporation Many plants have roots that extend downward for as much as 3.5 meters purple needlegrass, wild oats, foxtail, ryegrass, and buffalo grass.

Activities for Tourists!

Continued global warming could turn current marginal grasslands into deserts as rainfall patterns change. Land that provided a living to ranching families and habitat for prairie wildlife, is being converted to row crops. Development of urban areas is increasingly cutting into grassland habitat. Drought-hardy, cold-resistant, and herbicide-tolerant varieties of soybeans, wheat, and corn allow crops to expand into native grassland. Where only one crop is grown, pests and disease can spread easily, creating the need for potentially toxic pesticides. Environmental Issues

Works Cited