Biome Review

A biome is a large geographical area of distinctive plant and animal groups, which are adapted to that particular environment. The climate and geography of a region determines what type of biome can exist in that region. Major biomes include deserts, forests, grasslands, tundra, and several types of aquatic environments. Each biome consists of many ecosystems whose communities have adapted to the small differences in climate and the environment inside the biome.

To understand a world biome, you need to know:

• What the climate of the region is like.
• Where each biome is found and and what its geography is like.
• The special adaptations of the vegetation.
• The types of animals found in the biome and their physical and behavioral adaptations to their environment.

As we examine each biome, you should be paying attention to the animal and plant species, major economic activities, soil types, and threats to each biome.    Here are some website links to help you in your research:

Excellent websites with links to each of the biome types

http://www.blueplanetbiomes.org/world_biomes.htm

http://www.mbgnet.net/

http://ths.sps.lane.edu/biomes/index1.html

http://www.enchantedlearning.com/biomes/

If you are planning on writing the provincial exam, it is important to remember that the biome component is a significant section of the test - and a section in which you can excel.