Biomes of the World to Know for Intro to Ecology

Biomes are distinct ecological areas shaped by climate, geography, and living organisms. Understanding these biomes, from tropical rainforests to deserts, reveals their vital roles in biodiversity, carbon cycling, and the challenges they face in a changing world.

1. Tropical Rainforest

   • Characterized by high rainfall (over 2000 mm annually) and warm temperatures year-round.
   • Home to the highest biodiversity on Earth, including numerous plant and animal species.
   • Contains distinct layers: emergent, canopy, understory, and forest floor, each supporting different organisms.
   • Plays a crucial role in carbon storage and oxygen production, impacting global climate.
   • Threatened by deforestation, which leads to habitat loss and decreased biodiversity.

2. Temperate Deciduous Forest

   • Experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers and cold winters, leading to seasonal leaf drop.
   • Dominated by broadleaf trees such as oak, maple, and beech, which adapt to seasonal changes.
   • Supports a variety of wildlife, including deer, bears, and numerous bird species.
   • Soil is rich in nutrients due to leaf litter decomposition, promoting diverse plant life.
   • Faces threats from urbanization, agriculture, and invasive species.

3. Coniferous Forest (Taiga)

   • Found in northern regions, characterized by long, cold winters and short, mild summers.
   • Dominated by coniferous trees like spruce, fir, and pine, which are adapted to cold climates.
   • Provides habitat for species such as moose, wolves, and various migratory birds.
   • Soil is often acidic and nutrient-poor, with slow decomposition rates due to cold temperatures.
   • Affected by logging and climate change, which can alter species composition and forest health.

4. Grassland (Savanna and Prairie)

   • Composed of vast open spaces dominated by grasses, with few trees or shrubs.
   • Savannas are typically found in tropical regions, while prairies are in temperate zones.
   • Supports large herbivores like bison and elephants, as well as predators such as lions and wolves.
   • Fire plays a natural role in maintaining grassland ecosystems by promoting new growth.
   • Threatened by agricultural expansion and overgrazing, leading to habitat degradation.

5. Tundra

   • Characterized by extremely cold temperatures, low precipitation, and a short growing season.
   • Features permafrost, a permanently frozen layer of soil that limits root growth.
   • Supports specialized flora and fauna, including mosses, lichens, caribou, and arctic foxes.
   • Climate change poses significant risks, leading to thawing permafrost and habitat alteration.
   • Acts as a carbon sink, but melting permafrost can release stored greenhouse gases.

6. Desert

   • Defined by low precipitation (less than 250 mm annually) and extreme temperature variations.
   • Vegetation is sparse, with drought-resistant plants like cacti and succulents.
   • Adapted wildlife includes reptiles, rodents, and insects that can survive harsh conditions.
   • Deserts can be hot (like the Sahara) or cold (like Antarctica), each with unique ecosystems.
   • Threatened by climate change, habitat destruction, and water scarcity.

7. Aquatic (Freshwater and Marine)

   • Freshwater biomes include rivers, lakes, and wetlands, supporting diverse ecosystems.
   • Marine biomes encompass oceans, coral reefs, and estuaries, covering over 70% of the Earth's surface.
   • Aquatic ecosystems are vital for global oxygen production and carbon cycling.
   • Home to a wide range of organisms, from microscopic plankton to large whales.
   • Faces threats from pollution, overfishing, and climate change, impacting biodiversity and ecosystem health.