Biomes

Definition

Biomes are large regions of the Earth characterized by specific climate conditions, plant communities, and animal groups. They are distinct biological communities that have formed in response to a shared physical climate.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Biomes are primarily determined by temperature and precipitation patterns.
2. There are both terrestrial biomes (like forests, deserts, and tundra) and aquatic biomes (such as freshwater lakes and marine oceans).
3. Each biome supports different types of organisms that have adapted to its specific environment.
4. Human activities like deforestation, pollution, and climate change can drastically alter or even destroy biomes.
5. The concept of biomes helps ecologists understand the distribution and diversity of life on Earth.

Review Questions

• What are the primary factors that define a biome?
• How do human activities impact biomes?
• Why is it important for ecologists to study biomes?

Related terms

Ecosystem: A community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.

Climate:

The long-term pattern of weather conditions in a particular area.

Biodiversity: The variety of life in the world or in a particular habitat or ecosystem.