An Introduction to Biomes

Biomes are similar kinds of ecosystems found around the world; biomes are characterized by their physical conditions (abiotic factors e.g. rainfall and temperature throughout the year) and the communities of organisms that interact in these conditions.

Definition

Where are they located?

Play the Game

http://www.purposegames.com/game/1445

Extension: What is the difference between a biome, an ecosystem and a habitat

Where are they located?

Latitude

• Altitude

Climatic Conditions

• Solar radiation

• Effect of seasons

• Atmospheric circulation

• Evaporation

What effects their location?

Latitude & Altitude

Solar Radiation

Effects of seasons

Atmospheric Circulation

Limiting factors – Temperature & Precipitation

Spot Quiz

Wettest place on Earth Hottest place on Earth

Driest Place on Earth Coldest place on Earth

Ratio between Precipitation (P) & Evaporation (E)

• P>E → Increase leaching and loss of nutrients

• P<E → Increase in salinity

• P=E → Soil rich and fertile

Effects of Evaporation

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Key Learning

• What is a Biome?

• Types of Biomes & their location?

• Factors effecting their distribution?

– Climatic e.g. solar radiation, temperature, rainfall, evaporation

– Terrain

Future Learning – Key characteristics of individual biomes, adaptations, types of productivity (Net, Gross, Primary, Secondary)