Major biomes, ecosystems, and ecological communities
Tropical rainforests are found near the Equator and have high biodiversity and year-round rainfall.
Temperate forests have distinct seasons with deciduous trees that lose their leaves in winter.
Grasslands (savannas and prairies) are dominated by grasses and have few trees.
Desert biomes have very low precipitation and specialized plants and animals adapted to dry conditions.
Tundra biomes are found in Arctic regions and have permafrost, low temperatures, and short growing seasons.
Boreal forests (taiga) are coniferous forests found in northern regions with cold winters.
Marine biomes include oceans, coral reefs, and estuaries, covering most of Earth's surface.
Freshwater biomes include rivers, lakes, and wetlands, supporting diverse aquatic life.
Chaparral biomes are found in Mediterranean climates with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
Altitude creates vertical zonation of biomes on mountains, from forests at the base to tundra at high elevations.
Biomes are large-scale ecological communities characterized by similar climate, vegetation, and animal life.
Climate change is affecting biomes worldwide, causing shifts in species ranges and ecosystem composition.
Ecotones are transition zones between different biomes, often supporting high biodiversity.
Human activities such as deforestation and urbanization are transforming biomes globally.
Conservation efforts aim to protect biomes and their biodiversity for future generations.