9.2 Terrestrial Biomes and Ecosystems
5 min read•august 14, 2024
Earth's diverse terrestrial biomes are shaped by , geography, and complex ecological interactions. From to , each biome supports unique plant and animal communities adapted to specific environmental conditions.
Understanding terrestrial biomes is crucial for grasping Earth's ecosystems. These biomes face threats from human activities like and climate change, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect and maintain vital .
Terrestrial Biomes and Characteristics
Major Terrestrial Biomes
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- Tundra characterized by low temperatures, short growing seasons, permafrost, and low-growing vegetation (mosses, lichens, and shrubs)
- (boreal forest) features cold temperatures, coniferous trees (spruce, fir, and pine), and acidic soils
- have distinct seasons, moderate temperatures, and trees that lose their leaves annually (oak, maple, and beech)
- (prairies and steppes) characterized by grasses, herbaceous plants, occasional trees, and periodic droughts or fires
- have mild temperatures, high humidity, and dense vegetation, including tall trees (redwoods and Douglas firs) and understory plants
- Tropical rainforests feature high temperatures, abundant rainfall, and immense biodiversity, with tall trees forming a dense canopy and numerous understory layers
- have warm temperatures, seasonal rainfall, and a mix of grasses and scattered trees (acacia and baobab)
- characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, with drought-resistant shrubs and small trees (sage and manzanita)
- have low precipitation, extreme temperatures, and sparse vegetation adapted to conserve water (cacti and succulent plants)
Characteristics of Terrestrial Biomes
- Terrestrial biomes are large, distinct ecological communities characterized by their dominant vegetation, climate, and geography
- Vegetation in each biome is adapted to specific environmental conditions, such as temperature, precipitation, and soil type
- Climate patterns, including temperature and precipitation, largely determine the distribution and characteristics of terrestrial biomes
- Biomes support diverse communities of plants and animals that interact through complex food webs and ecological relationships
- Terrestrial biomes play crucial roles in global biogeochemical cycles, such as the carbon and water cycles, and provide essential ecosystem services
Factors Influencing Biome Distribution
Climatic Factors
- Temperature affects the length of the growing season and the types of plants that can survive in a given area
- Precipitation influences the amount of water available for plant growth and determines the vegetation structure and composition
- Latitude influences the amount of solar radiation received, affecting temperature and seasonality (higher latitudes experience colder temperatures and shorter growing seasons compared to equatorial regions)
- Altitude affects temperature and precipitation, with higher elevations generally experiencing cooler temperatures and increased precipitation, resulting in distinct biomes at different elevations within the same region (montane forests)
- Ocean currents can moderate coastal climates, creating milder conditions and influencing the distribution of biomes (temperate rainforests)
Geographic Factors
- Topography, including mountains and valleys, can create rain shadows and microclimates that influence local biome distribution
- Soil characteristics, such as nutrient content, pH, and water retention, can affect the types of plants that can grow in an area and, consequently, the biome type
- Proximity to large water bodies, such as oceans and lakes, can moderate temperatures and increase humidity, influencing the distribution of coastal and riparian biomes
- Natural barriers, such as mountain ranges and deserts, can limit the dispersal of species and create distinct biomes on either side
- Geologic history, including past climate changes and tectonic events, has shaped the distribution and evolution of terrestrial biomes over long timescales
Adaptations and Interactions in Biomes
Plant Adaptations
- Tundra plants grow low to the ground, have shallow root systems, and use the sun's energy efficiently during the short growing season; many reproduce asexually to conserve energy
- Taiga plants, such as coniferous trees, have needle-like leaves to reduce water loss and allow snow to slide off easily, and thick bark to protect against cold temperatures
- Temperate deciduous forest plants have broad leaves to maximize during the growing season and drop their leaves to conserve energy during the dormant season; many have thick bark to protect against fire
- Temperate grassland plants have extensive root systems to access water and nutrients in the soil, and many are adapted to periodic fires (underground storage organs or fire-resistant seeds)
- Tropical rainforest plants have adapted to high humidity and competition for light by developing buttress roots, drip tips on leaves, and epiphytic growth habits
- Desert plants conserve water through various means, such as having small leaves, deep root systems, and the ability to store water in their stems (cacti)
Animal Adaptations and Interactions
- Animals in each biome have adapted to the specific conditions and resources available (tundra animals have thick fur or feathers for insulation, while desert animals are often nocturnal to avoid extreme heat)
- Biotic interactions, such as , competition, and , shape the structure and dynamics of ecosystems within each biome
- In the African savanna, the grazing of large herbivores (zebras and wildebeests) maintains the grasslands and supports predators (lions and hyenas)
- Migratory animals, such as birds and large mammals, connect different biomes and play important roles in and seed dispersal
- Pollination and seed dispersal by animals are critical for the reproduction and distribution of plants in many biomes (insects, birds, and mammals)
- Decomposers, such as fungi and bacteria, break down dead organic matter and recycle nutrients back into the soil, supporting plant growth and ecosystem productivity
Human Impacts on Biomes
Habitat Alteration and Destruction
- Deforestation, particularly in tropical rainforests and temperate forests, leads to habitat loss, biodiversity decline, soil erosion, and altered carbon cycles, contributing to climate change and the loss of ecosystem services
- Agriculture and livestock grazing can lead to the conversion of grasslands, savannas, and forests into croplands or pastures, resulting in habitat fragmentation, soil degradation, and changes in species composition
- Urbanization and infrastructure development can cause , fragmentation, and pollution, affecting local and regional biodiversity and ecosystem functions
Climate Change and Invasive Species
- Climate change, driven by human activities (fossil fuel combustion and land-use changes), can shift the distribution of biomes, alter species ranges, and disrupt ecological interactions, leading to biodiversity loss and changes in ecosystem services
- Invasive species, often introduced by human activities (trade and travel), can outcompete native species, alter ecosystem dynamics, and cause economic damage
- Overexploitation of resources, such as overhunting, overfishing, and unsustainable harvesting of plants, can lead to population declines, local extinctions, and cascading effects on ecosystem structure and function
Pollution and Conservation Efforts
- Pollution, including air, water, and soil contamination, can have detrimental effects on the health of organisms and the functioning of ecosystems across various biomes
- Acid rain, caused by sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide emissions, can acidify soils and water bodies, damaging plants and aquatic ecosystems
- Conservation efforts, such as protected areas, sustainable land management practices, and ecosystem restoration projects, can help mitigate the negative impacts of human activities on terrestrial biomes and promote the of biodiversity and ecosystem services
- International agreements, such as the Convention on Biological Diversity and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, aim to address global environmental challenges and support the conservation of terrestrial biomes
Key Terms to Review (25)
Biodiversity: Biodiversity refers to the variety of life forms on Earth, including the different species of plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms, as well as the ecosystems they form and the genetic diversity within those species. This concept is crucial for maintaining ecosystem stability and resilience, influencing how organisms interact with each other and their environments. A rich biodiversity supports essential ecological processes, such as nutrient cycling, pollination, and climate regulation, which are interconnected with biogeochemical cycles, terrestrial biomes, and aquatic ecosystems.
Biogeography: Biogeography is the study of the distribution of species and ecosystems across geographical spaces and through geological times. It connects ecology, geography, and evolutionary biology to understand how different species interact with their environments and how historical events, like climate changes and continental drift, influence this distribution. By examining patterns of biodiversity, biogeography helps explain why certain organisms are found in specific regions while others are not.
Chaparral: Chaparral is a type of vegetation characterized by dense, spiny shrubs and occasional trees, typically found in regions with a Mediterranean climate that experiences hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. This biome is notable for its unique adaptation to fire, as many chaparral plants have evolved to regenerate quickly after being burned, making it a critical ecosystem for biodiversity.
Climate: Climate refers to the long-term patterns of temperature, humidity, wind, and precipitation in a given area. It is different from weather, which describes short-term atmospheric conditions. Climate shapes the environments in which various terrestrial biomes exist, influencing their characteristics and the types of ecosystems that can thrive in those regions.
Deforestation: Deforestation is the process of clearing or removing forests or trees from land, often for agricultural, urban development, or logging purposes. This significant environmental issue leads to habitat loss, decreased biodiversity, and disruptions in ecological balance, affecting various aspects of the environment.
Deserts: Deserts are arid regions characterized by extremely low precipitation, typically less than 250 millimeters (10 inches) annually. These environments have unique climates and ecosystems, where extreme temperature variations and limited water availability shape the life forms that can survive there, making them an important part of terrestrial biomes and ecosystems.
Ecosystem services: Ecosystem services are the benefits that humans derive from natural ecosystems, including provisioning, regulating, cultural, and supporting services. These services play a crucial role in sustaining life by providing essential resources, maintaining ecological balance, and enhancing human well-being. Understanding these services helps us appreciate the value of biodiversity and the necessity of conserving natural environments.
Eugene Odum: Eugene Odum was a prominent ecologist known as the 'father of modern ecology' for his groundbreaking work in the field of ecosystem science. He emphasized the importance of understanding ecosystems as integrated wholes rather than just collections of individual organisms, laying the foundation for modern ecological theory and education.
Habitat destruction: Habitat destruction refers to the process by which natural habitats are altered or eliminated, leading to the loss of biodiversity and the degradation of ecosystems. This phenomenon can be caused by human activities such as mining, agriculture, urban development, and natural disasters, and it significantly impacts wildlife populations and the balance of ecosystems.
Henry David Thoreau: Henry David Thoreau was an American transcendentalist writer and philosopher best known for his book 'Walden,' which reflects on simple living in natural surroundings. His ideas emphasize the importance of nature and personal introspection, connecting deeply with the themes of ecology and environmental stewardship.
Nutrient Cycling: Nutrient cycling refers to the movement and exchange of organic and inorganic matter back into the production of living matter. This process is essential for ecosystems as it ensures that vital nutrients like carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus are continuously recycled through various biogeochemical cycles, sustaining life. The cycling of nutrients connects the various components of ecosystems, including living organisms, soil, water, and the atmosphere, maintaining their productivity and health.
Photosynthesis: Photosynthesis is the biological process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose, using carbon dioxide and water as raw materials. This process is crucial as it not only provides the energy needed for growth and development in plants but also contributes significantly to the composition of the atmosphere and supports life on Earth.
Predation: Predation is the biological interaction where one organism, the predator, hunts and consumes another organism, the prey. This relationship is crucial for maintaining the balance within ecosystems, influencing population dynamics and community structures. Through predation, energy is transferred between trophic levels, shaping the composition and health of terrestrial biomes while also playing a significant role in biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Preservation: Preservation refers to the act of maintaining and protecting ecosystems, species, and natural resources from degradation and destruction. This concept is crucial for sustaining biodiversity and ensuring that terrestrial biomes can continue to function effectively, providing essential services like clean air, water, and habitat for various organisms. Preservation strategies often involve legal protections, conservation efforts, and sustainable practices that aim to minimize human impact on the environment.
Sustainability: Sustainability refers to the ability to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This concept emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balance between environmental health, economic viability, and social equity, ensuring that resources are used wisely and responsibly over time.
Symbiosis: Symbiosis is a biological term that describes the close and long-term interaction between two different species. This relationship can be mutually beneficial, harmful, or neutral for the organisms involved, and it plays a critical role in ecosystems by influencing community structure and species interactions. Understanding symbiosis helps highlight the interconnectedness of organisms and their environments, which is essential for grasping the dynamics of ecosystems.
Taiga: Taiga, also known as boreal forest, is a biome characterized by its coniferous forests, cold temperatures, and long winters. It is the largest terrestrial biome on Earth, stretching across North America, Europe, and Asia. The taiga plays a crucial role in the global ecosystem, as it serves as a significant carbon sink and provides habitat for diverse wildlife.
Temperate deciduous forests: Temperate deciduous forests are ecosystems characterized by trees that shed their leaves annually, typically found in regions with a moderate climate. These forests experience four distinct seasons, which contribute to their rich biodiversity, including a variety of plant and animal species adapted to the seasonal changes. The presence of broadleaf trees such as oak, maple, and beech defines these forests, making them a vital component of terrestrial ecosystems.
Temperate grasslands: Temperate grasslands are biomes characterized by vast open spaces dominated by grasses and few trees, typically found in regions with moderate rainfall and distinct seasonal temperature variations. These ecosystems are known for their rich soil, which supports diverse plant and animal life and plays a crucial role in agricultural production.
Temperate rainforests: Temperate rainforests are lush, dense forests found in temperate regions characterized by high levels of precipitation, typically exceeding 100 inches annually. These ecosystems are known for their rich biodiversity, towering trees, and a unique mix of coniferous and broadleaf species, making them crucial habitats for many organisms and vital for global carbon cycling.
Tropical rainforests: Tropical rainforests are lush, biodiverse ecosystems located near the equator, characterized by high rainfall and warm temperatures year-round. They are known for their dense canopy of trees, diverse plant and animal life, and critical role in global carbon cycling and climate regulation. These forests typically experience no dry season, making them one of the most productive and complex ecosystems on Earth.
Tropical savannas: Tropical savannas are grassland ecosystems characterized by a mix of open grasslands and scattered trees, typically found in regions with a distinct wet and dry season. These biomes support a wide range of biodiversity, including large herbivores and various plant species adapted to the seasonal climate. Tropical savannas play a crucial role in the Earth’s ecosystems by providing habitats for wildlife and influencing local climate patterns.
Tundra: Tundra is a unique biome characterized by its cold temperatures, short growing seasons, and limited vegetation primarily consisting of mosses, lichens, and low shrubs. This environment is found in polar regions and at high elevations in mountain ranges, where permafrost—a permanently frozen layer of soil—restricts plant roots and contributes to the biome's distinct ecological features. Tundra plays a crucial role in Earth's climate system and serves as a habitat for specially adapted wildlife.
Vegetation types: Vegetation types refer to the various classifications of plant communities that exist within different environments, shaped by climate, soil, and other ecological factors. These classifications help us understand the diversity and distribution of plant life across the planet, and they play a crucial role in determining the characteristics of terrestrial biomes and ecosystems. Different vegetation types are adapted to specific environmental conditions, influencing everything from animal habitats to human land use.
Zoogeography: Zoogeography is the study of the geographical distribution of animal species and their ecological relationships across different regions. It focuses on how various factors such as climate, habitat, and geographical barriers influence where animals live and how they interact within their environments. Understanding zoogeography helps explain patterns of biodiversity and the impact of evolutionary processes on species distribution.