Key Environmental Biomes

Environmental biomes are diverse ecosystems that support countless species and play vital roles in our planet's health. Understanding these biomes helps us appreciate their importance and the threats they face, connecting us to the broader environmental issues we study in Camp Fiveable.

1. Tropical rainforest

   • High biodiversity with thousands of plant and animal species.
   • Consistently warm temperatures and high annual rainfall (over 2000 mm).
   • Dense canopy structure that creates multiple layers of habitat.
   • Critical for global oxygen production and carbon storage.
   • Threatened by deforestation and climate change.

2. Temperate deciduous forest

   • Characterized by four distinct seasons with warm summers and cold winters.
   • Trees shed leaves in autumn, allowing for nutrient recycling in the soil.
   • Supports a variety of wildlife, including mammals, birds, and insects.
   • Rich in biodiversity, but often impacted by urbanization and agriculture.
   • Important for carbon sequestration and soil health.

3. Coniferous forest (Taiga)

   • Dominated by evergreen trees like spruce, fir, and pine.
   • Cold climate with long winters and short summers, with moderate precipitation.
   • Provides habitat for species adapted to cold, such as moose and lynx.
   • Plays a significant role in carbon storage and climate regulation.
   • Vulnerable to logging and climate change effects.

4. Tundra

   • Cold, treeless biome with a short growing season and permafrost.
   • Limited biodiversity, primarily consisting of mosses, lichens, and low shrubs.
   • Animals like caribou and arctic foxes are adapted to extreme conditions.
   • Sensitive to climate change, with melting permafrost releasing greenhouse gases.
   • Important for global climate regulation and indigenous cultures.

5. Grassland

   • Dominated by grasses with few trees, found in regions with moderate rainfall.
   • Supports large herbivores like bison and various bird species.
   • Soil is often rich in nutrients, making it ideal for agriculture.
   • Prone to wildfires, which can help maintain the ecosystem's health.
   • Threatened by agricultural expansion and habitat loss.

6. Savanna

   • Characterized by a mix of grasslands and scattered trees, typically in tropical regions.
   • Supports large herbivores like elephants and predators like lions.
   • Seasonal rainfall leads to distinct wet and dry periods.
   • Fire plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem and promoting growth.
   • Faces threats from land conversion for agriculture and human encroachment.

7. Desert

   • Extremely low precipitation, leading to arid conditions and sparse vegetation.
   • Adapted species include cacti, succulents, and animals like camels and lizards.
   • Temperature extremes, with hot days and cold nights.
   • Soil is often sandy or rocky, with low organic matter.
   • Vulnerable to climate change and human activities like mining.

8. Aquatic (Freshwater and Marine)

   • Freshwater biomes include rivers, lakes, and wetlands, supporting diverse ecosystems.
   • Marine biomes cover about 70% of the Earth's surface, including oceans and estuaries.
   • Critical for global water cycles, climate regulation, and biodiversity.
   • Threatened by pollution, overfishing, and habitat destruction.
   • Essential for human survival, providing food, water, and recreation.

9. Coral reef

   • Highly diverse marine ecosystems, often referred to as the "rainforests of the sea."
   • Built from coral polyps, providing habitat for numerous marine species.
   • Sensitive to temperature changes, pollution, and ocean acidification.
   • Important for coastal protection and supporting fisheries.
   • Threatened by climate change, overfishing, and habitat degradation.

10. Wetland

    • Areas where water covers the soil, either permanently or seasonally.
    • Supports unique plant and animal species, including amphibians and migratory birds.
    • Acts as natural water filters, improving water quality and reducing flooding.
    • Critical for biodiversity and providing ecosystem services.
    • Threatened by drainage for agriculture and urban development.