Biomes: Exploring Nature’s Neighbourhoods

This KS2 Biome blog will tell you what a biome is, why biomes are important and how we classify biomes. Read on to find out more about the biomes of the world and the amazing biodiversity they hold! 

If you are a teacher looking for biomes KS2 planning or creative KS2 biome activities, click here to explore our biomes and climate zones collection.

Skip straight to information about each biome

Tropical and Subtropical Moist Broadleaf Forests Biome

Tropical and Subtropical Dry Broadleaf Forests Biome

Tropical and Subtropical Coniferous Forests

Temperate Coniferous Forests Biome Boreal Forests / Taiga Biome

Tropical and Subtropical Grasslands, Savannas, and Shrublands Biome

Temperate Grasslands, Savannas, and Shrublands

Flooded Grasslands and Savannas Biome

Montane Grasslands and Shrublands Biome

Tundra Biome

Mediterranean Forests, Woodlands and Scrub Biome

Deserts and Xeric Shrublands Biome

Mangrove Biome

Glossary

What Is A Biome?

A biome is a large region on Earth with its own unique climate, landscape, plants and animals. Think of biomes as nature's neighbourhoods, where the living things are perfectly suited to the local weather and environment! 

Biomes can be found on land and in water and come in all shapes and sizes. 

Each biome is home to different species of plants and animals that are specially adapted to survive in that environment. From the icy tundra to the sweltering deserts, every biome has its own challenges. For example, plants in the desert have to store water to survive, while animals in the tundra grow thick fur to stay warm. A biome’s temperature, rainfall, and even its altitude affect the kinds of life that can thrive there.

Why Are Biomes Important?

Biomes are essential for life on Earth. They provide us with natural resources like food, wood, and medicines, they help regulate the climate, and are home to a wide range of animals and plants, which we call biodiversity. 

Every biome plays a part in keeping our planet healthy. This is why protecting biomes is so important – not just for the animals and plants that live there, but for us humans too!

How Are Biomes Affected By Climate Change?

Climate change is having a significant impact on biomes around the world. Rising temperatures and shifting weather patterns can alter rainfall, causing droughts in some areas and floods in others, which disrupts the delicate balance of these ecosystems. Plants and animals may struggle to adapt quickly enough, leading to changes in species distributions, increased extinctions, and shifts in the vibrant biodiversity that makes each biome unique.

How Do We Classify Biomes?

Scientists have come up with different ways to organise and classify biomes based on factors like how hot or cold they are, how much rain they get, and how high up they are. This helps us understand why different plants and animals live in different parts of the world.

For example, deserts are dry with little rain, while rainforests are hot and wet all year round. Some places, like mountains, have biomes that change with altitude – the higher you go, the cooler it gets!

There are many types of biomes, and today we’ll focus on the 14 land biomes identified by the World Wildlife Fund. So stay tuned as we dive into these fascinating biomes and explore the incredible creatures that call them home!

Tropical and Subtropical Moist Broadleaf Forests Biome

Location

You might know these as the rainforest biome! In fact, the WWF calls these warm, wet forests near the Equator "tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests." These biomes are located between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. Famous examples include the Amazon Rainforest in South America, the Congo Rainforest in Africa, and the rainforests of Southeast Asia.

Climate

These forests are warm year-round with very high levels of rainfall and humidity. In some areas, it rains almost every day! This constant warmth and moisture create perfect conditions for a variety of plants and animals to thrive.

Biodiversity Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Extremely High: These forests are home to more species of plants and animals than any other biome on Earth. In fact, more than half of the world’s species live in these rainforests, making them biodiversity hotspots!

Plants and Animals (or Flora and Fauna if you’re fancy!)

These rainforests are packed with diverse plant life, including a wide range of evergreen and deciduous trees. The forests are structured in four distinct layers:

• Forest Floor: The dark, damp ground layer where decomposers like fungi and insects break down plant material. Animals like jaguars, tigers, and tapirs roam here.
• Understory: This is the layer of shorter trees and shrubs, home to frogs, insects, and birds, such as parrots.
• Canopy: The dense, leafy roof made by the tops of tall trees. It's where you’ll find monkeys, sloths, and countless birds and insects.
• Emergent Layer: The tallest trees tower above everything else, with eagles, butterflies, and bats flying high here.

At every level, you'll find countless species of bugs, butterflies, birds, and mammals. Plants range from towering trees to tiny orchids and vines that climb to reach the sunlight.

At Risk

Unfortunately, tropical rainforests are at great risk due to deforestation for agriculture, logging, and mining. The loss of trees means a loss of biodiversity, and many species are becoming endangered or extinct as their habitats are destroyed.

Protecting these forests is essential for the health of the planet – they store carbon, produce oxygen, and support millions of species of wildlife.

Tropical and Subtropical Dry Broadleaf Forests Biome

Location

Tropical and subtropical dry broadleaf forests are located near the Equator, between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. You’ll find these forests in regions like the dry forests of Sri Lanka, parts of Mexico, Madagascar, and India. 

Climate

These forests enjoy warm temperatures year-round, but unlike tropical rainforests, they have distinct wet and dry seasons. During the dry season, rainfall can be scarce, so plants and animals have adapted to survive long periods without water.

Biodiversity Rating  ⭐⭐⭐

Moderate: While these forests aren’t as biologically diverse as tropical rainforests, they still support a variety of plant and animal species. The dry conditions lead to a unique ecosystem, often with more mammals than other tropical biomes.

Flora and Fauna

Most of the trees in this biome, like teak and ebony, are deciduous, meaning they lose their leaves during the dry season to save water. Some evergreen trees, like some acacias, can survive the dry season without shedding leaves. The forest floor can become bare during the dry months, but during the rainy season, it bursts into life with greenery.

These forests are home to a fascinating range of wildlife. Monkeys, deer, and large cats like leopards roam through these forests. Ground-dwelling birds like partridges and guinea fowl are common, and vibrantly-coloured parrots grace the skies. Rodents, reptiles, and insects also play key roles in these ecosystems.

At Risk

Like many biomes, tropical and subtropical dry broadleaf forests are at risk due to deforestation for agriculture and development. Logging, especially for teak and ebony, has led to a loss of biodiversity in these regions. 

Tropical and Subtropical Coniferous Forests

Location

Tropical and subtropical coniferous forests are spread across North and South America and Asia in countries such as: Mexico, Belize, Honduras, Nicaragua, Cuba, Haiti, India, Nepal, Myanmar, the Philippines, and Indonesia. These forests are typically located on the steep slopes and river valleys of mountainous or hilly regions and are named after the conifer trees that grow in abundance in this biome.

Climate

These forests experience moderate rainfall and seasonal changes in temperature. While they are located in tropical and subtropical regions, the climate can vary, with cooler temperatures at higher elevations. These forests are generally drier than tropical rainforests but more humid than desert biomes, offering a balanced environment for the unique plant and animal life.

Biodiversity Rating  ⭐⭐⭐

Moderate: While not as biologically diverse as tropical rainforests, tropical and subtropical coniferous forests still host a wide variety of plant and animal species. They are important habitats for migratory birds and many species which can not be found anywhere else in the world, such as the Red Panda and Golden Langur.

The Red Panda: Native to the subtropical coniferous forests of the Eastern Himalayas, including Bhutan, Nepal, and northern India. Red pandas are well-adapted to cooler forest regions with dense bamboo thickets, which are their primary food source.

The Golden Langur: Found in the tropical and subtropical forests of Bhutan and the northeastern part of India. These monkeys are known for their bright golden fur and live in the treetops of forested areas.

Flora and Fauna

Conifer trees like pines, cypresses, and firs dominate the landscape. The forests also feature a rich variety of undergrowth, including ferns, fungi, and small shrubs, which thrive in the shaded, moist conditions beneath the trees.

The wildlife here is diverse. Migratory birds, such as hawks, find homes in these forests during the winter months. Animals like pumas, monkeys, and tapirs roam through the dense undergrowth. Lizards, snakes, and a variety of butterflies and beetles can also be found throughout these forests.

At Risk

These forests also face threats from logging, agricultural expansion, and human settlement. Many species within these forests, particularly migratory birds, rely on this biome for survival.

Temperate Broadleaf and Mixed Forests Biome

Location 

Temperate broadleaf and mixed forests are found in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, covering regions like Central China, the Himalayas, and Eastern North America. The landscape includes rolling hills, rivers, and seasonal streams.

Climate

These forests experience distinct seasonal climates with predictable variations in temperature and rainfall. Summers are typically warm, and winters can be cold, especially in the Northern Hemisphere. Rainfall is moderate to high throughout the year, supporting the growth of diverse vegetation.

Biodiversity Rating  ⭐⭐⭐⭐

High: These forests have a high level of biodiversity, with thousands of species of plants and animals adapted to the varying conditions throughout the year.

Flora and Fauna

In the Northern Hemisphere, this biome is home to a range of broadleaf trees such as oaks, beeches, maples, and birches. These trees are often deciduous, shedding their leaves in winter to conserve water and energy. In the Southern Hemisphere, forests include species like Eucalyptus, along with broadleaf trees. These trees often remain green year-round.

This biome hosts a rich array of wildlife. In the Northern Hemisphere, common animals include deer, wolves, foxes, bears, and squirrels, while birds such as woodpeckers, owls, and songbirds are abundant.

The Southern Hemisphere features unique species like koalas in Australia and kiwis - flightless birds -  in New Zealand. Amphibians and reptiles also thrive here due to the stable, seasonal climate.

At Risk

Temperate broadleaf and mixed forests face threats from deforestation, urban expansion, and climate change. These activities lead to habitat loss and can disrupt the delicate balance of these ecosystems. 

Temperate Coniferous Forests Biome

Location 

Temperate coniferous forests are mainly found in the northern hemisphere, like parts of North America (think Canada and the Pacific Northwest), Europe (like Scandinavia), and Asia (such as Russia). These forests are often found in areas with cool to cold climates and mountainous landscapes.

Climate 

These forests have cold winters and mild summers, with moderate to high amounts of rain or snow during the winter months. The climate here supports the growth of conifer trees, which are well-adapted to the cooler temperatures and snowy conditions.

Biodiversity Rating  ⭐⭐⭐

Moderate: While not as bustling with species as tropical rainforests, temperate coniferous forests still host a variety of plant and animal life. The forests are dominated by coniferous trees like pines, spruces, and firs, which keep their freeze-resistant needles all year round, helping them survive the long, cold winters.

Flora and Fauna 

These forests include many species of tree, including cedar, sequoia and redwood, and conifers, such as pine and fir, which have needle-like leaves and produce cones. Animals such as moose, bears, and various birds like owls and woodpeckers make their homes here. The forest floor is often covered with a layer of pine needles, which helps keep the soil moist and fertile, encouraging the growth of shrubs and flowers.

At Risk 

These forests are threatened by logging, climate change, and habitat destruction. 

Boreal Forests / Taiga Biome

Location 

Welcome to the taiga, the world’s second largest land biome! But, there’s a catch—it’s a VIP club exclusive to the Northern Hemisphere. These forests stretch across northern parts of North America, Europe, and Asia in countries like Canada, United States, Russia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Norway, Sweden and Finland. 

Climate

The Taiga has long, cold winters and short, warm summers. The climate is characterised by its relatively low temperatures and significant snowfall in the winter. Despite the cold, the taiga experiences a brief but intense growing season during the summer.

Biodiversity Rating  ⭐⭐⭐

Moderate: This isn’t the most diverse biome out there, as the harsh climate limits the types of species that can thrive here. However, it’s still packed with life. The plants and animals that make the taiga their home are super hardy and well adapted to the conditions.

Flora and Fauna

In the taiga, coniferous trees like spruce and fir take centre stage. Many berry trees grow here, including cranberry, lingonberry and blueberries.

Wildlife includes large mammals like moose, caribou and bears, and predators such as wolves. Many animals, like the lynx and snowshoe hare, are experts at hide-and-seek, as they are camouflaged to blend in with the snowy landscape during the winter months. Few reptiles and amphibians make the taiga their home as it is difficult for them to regulate their temperature in such frosty conditions!

At Risk 

Climate change is a significant threat to the taiga, as rising temperatures can alter the delicate balance of this biome.

Tropical and Subtropical Grasslands, Savannas, and Shrublands Biome

Location

These biomes are found just to the north and south of the Equator, across places like  Africa, South America, Australia, and parts of Asia. Imagine vast open landscapes of grass, with a few shrubs and scattered trees. Trees are a rare sight here, and fires and droughts are part of life due to dry conditions and high temperatures. 

Climate

It’s warm all year round in these areas, but they have two very different seasons. During the wet season, heavy rains transform the land into lush green meadows. In fact, an entire year’s rainfall for this biome can fall in just a few days! In the dry season, however, water becomes scarce, and the landscape turns brown and dry. There isn’t enough rain to support forests, but the grasses and shrubs are adapted to thrive here.

Biodiversity Rating  ⭐⭐⭐⭐

High: These grasslands and savannas are teeming with life! Large herbivores like giraffes, zebras, and elephants roam the open spaces, while fierce predators like lions, cheetahs, and leopards are always on the lookout. Many animals migrate during the dry season, searching for water and food elsewhere.

Flora and Fauna

This biome showcases many different grass species, such as elephant grass. It also features shrubs - like Acacia - and a few scattered trees - like the mighty Baobab tree (which stores water in its trunk to survive the dry season).The savannas are where you’ll find some of the most famous animals on Earth: lions, elephants, cheetahs, and giraffes in Africa; kangaroos and emus in Australia. Many of these animals live in herds and migrate to follow the rain and find food. 

At Risk

These biomes are threatened as people are turning parts of the savanna into farmland. Climate change has led to higher temperatures and an increase in wildfires which is making it harder for plants and animals to survive in this biome. 

Temperate Grasslands, Savannas, and Shrublands

Location

Temperate grasslands are found further north and south of the equator than their tropical grassland cousins. Known by different names depending on where you are in the world, they’re called steppe in Asia, prairie in North America, pampas in South America, and veldt in Southern Africa. These biomes are famous for their wide-open spaces and rich soils that support a mix of grasses and shrubs.

Climate

Temperate grasslands enjoy all four seasons, with cold winters and hot summers. Rainfall is moderate and tends to fall evenly throughout the year, though it's not enough to support large forests.

Biodiversity Rating  ⭐⭐⭐

Moderate: While not as diverse as tropical forests or tropical grasslands, temperate grasslands still offer a good range of plant and animal life, all well-adapted to this grassy, open landscape.

Flora and Fauna

These grasslands are full of shorter, softer grasses like blue grama grass and buffalo grass, with only a few trees or shrubs growing near rivers and streams. Unsurprisingly, grazing animals are everywhere! Think antelopes, bison, and even small herbivores like prairie dogs. And where there are grazers, there are predators—foxes, wolves, and hawks and sparrows are common hunters in these areas, feeding on rodents and insects.

At Risk

Temperate grasslands face threats from agricultural expansion and overgrazing. The conversion of land for farming and cattle can lead to habitat loss and reduced biodiversity.

Flooded Grasslands and Savannas Biome

Location

Flooded grasslands and savannas can be found on four continents: South America (e.g. the Pantanal), Africa (e.g. the Okavango Delta), as well as in North America (e.g. the Everglades) and Asia (e.g. the Bengal Sundarbans). These regions experience regular flooding from rivers or seasonal rains, creating a dynamic landscape of wetlands, marshes, and swamps. They are often found at low elevations, where water can easily collect and flood.

Climate 

These areas have a tropical or subtropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons.  The wet season brings heavy rains and flooding, while the dry season sees water levels drop dramatically, exposing more land.

Biodiversity Rating  ⭐⭐⭐⭐

High: The regular flooding creates rich, fertile soils that support a variety of plant and animal species which are adapted to the wet conditions. From large mammals to tiny insects, these areas are teeming with life - and crocodiles!

Flora and Fauna

The vegetation in flooded grasslands includes a mix of aquatic plants like water lilies and papyrus, as well as tall grasses such as reeds and sedge. This plant life is crucial for animals like hippos, who graze on the grasses, and birds that nest among the reeds.

This biome is a bird paradise! Birds such as storks, herons, ibises, and spoonbills flock to flooded grasslands to feed and breed, especially during the wet season when the waters are full with fish, amphibians, and insects. Flooded grasslands are among the most important biomes for birds, especially migratory species that rely on these wetlands for food and nesting.

At Risk

Sadly, flooded grasslands are threatened by human activities that change the flow of water, such as dam construction, which can disrupt natural flooding patterns and affect wildlife.

Montane Grasslands and Shrublands Biome

Location

Montane grasslands and shrublands are found at high elevations in mountainous regions all around the world. You’ll find them in famous mountain ranges like the Andes in South America, the Rockies in North America, and the Himalayas in Asia. 

Climate

Due to their high altitude, montane grasslands and shrublands experience cool temperatures which can drop further at night quite quickly. The weather can also be unpredictable, with strong winds, heavy rains or snow appearing quite suddenly, making this biome quite different from the warmer, more stable biomes found at lower elevations.

Biodiversity Rating  ⭐⭐⭐

Moderate: Life for animals and plants can be more challenging in these regions because they are often more exposed to wind and receive more direct sunlight than biomes at lower elevations. While not as biologically rich as tropical biomes, the species that do live here are adapted to survive cold temperatures, strong winds, and steep, rocky terrain.

Flora and Fauna

Vegetation in montane regions includes hardy shrubs like rhododendrons and alpine flowers such as edelweiss and blue gentians. These plants grow close to the ground to avoid wind damage and conserve heat, - perfect for the high-altitude environment. They are also adapted to survive in nutrient-poor, rocky soils, thriving where many other plants cannot.

In terms of wildlife, you’ll find animals like mountain goats, marmots, pika and birds such as eagles and condors, which take advantage of the high winds and thermal currents to soar effortlessly. Interestingly, there are fewer predators here because the harsh conditions make it difficult for many animals to survive. However, those that do thrive, like snow leopards, are incredibly skillful hunters.

At Risk

These biomes are also at risk from human activities, such as mining and deforestation, which can damage the fragile soils and plant life, making it harder for this unique biome to recover.

Tundra Biome

Location

Is the tundra just found at the poles? Not at all. The tundra can also be found in high mountain regions, like parts of Alaska, Canada, Russia, and northern Scandinavia. It’s famous for its cold, treeless landscapes and frozen ground, making it a unique and fragile biome.

Climate

The tundra has some of the coldest temperatures on Earth, with long, harsh winters and short, cool summers. The growing season is super short, and precipitation is low, mostly falling as snow. 

Biodiversity Rating  ⭐⭐

Low to Moderate: The extreme conditions limit the number of plants and animals that can survive here, but, despite the cold, life finds a way to thrive by adapting to the cold. Think of it like a natural survival test—only the toughest make it!

Flora and Fauna

Tundra plants, like mosses, lichens, and dwarf shrubs, stay low to the ground to avoid cold winds. Despite the short growing season, some plants have evolved to grow quickly during the few weeks of summer, taking advantage of nearly 24-hour sunlight!

As for wildlife, polar bears, Arctic hares, and even migratory birds like snowy owls and geese call the tundra home. These animals are all adapted to cope with limited food sources and extreme cold.

At Risk

The tundra is particularly vulnerable to climate change. As temperatures rise, permafrost begins to thaw, which releases dangerous gases into the atmosphere. It’s a biome on the front line of climate change, and protecting it is crucial.

Mediterranean Forests, Woodlands and Scrub Biome

Location

Mediterranean forests, woodlands, and scrub are found around the Mediterranean Sea (think Spain, Greece, and Italy), as well as in California, parts of Chile, Australia, and South Africa. These biomes are located above the Tropic of Cancer in the northern hemisphere and below the Tropic of Capricorn in the southern hemisphere. They can range from coastal areas to mountainous regions!

Climate

This biome is known for its hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summers are all about blazing sunshine, while winters bring just enough rain to keep things from drying out completely. Plants and animals living here need to handle both extremes.

Biodiversity Rating  ⭐⭐⭐

Moderate: Though not as vast as other ecosystems, Mediterranean regions have a surprisingly high level of biodiversity.

Flora and Fauna

You’ll find plenty of evergreen shrubs like rosemary, sage, and lavender, along with trees with edible fruits and nuts like olives, dates, figs, almonds and pistachios. In South Africa’s Mediterranean fynbos region, you’ll also come across plants like proteas that can’t be found anywhere else!

Wildlife here is just as cool, with the Iberian lynx, Corciscan red deer and Mediterranean monk seal making their homes here. Not to mention birds of prey like hawks and eagles soaring above. 

At Risk

This biome is under threat from urban development, agriculture, and overgrazing, all of which contribute to deforestation and habitat loss. Soil erosion and the risk of species extinction are growing problems here too.

Deserts and Xeric Shrublands Biome

Location

Deserts and xeric shrublands are found in some of the driest places on Earth. Imagine vast, sandy expanses and rugged landscapes! You can explore these arid regions in the Sahara Desert in Africa, the Mojave Desert in North America, the Gobi Desert in Asia, and the Atacama Desert in South America. Interestingly, Antarctica and parts of the Arctic are also classified as deserts.

Climate

These biomes have extremely low rainfall and large temperature swings between day and night. During the day, temperatures can soar, while at night, they can plummet. It’s a myth that all deserts are hot. They actually show both types of extreme temperature: hot and cold. Hot deserts, like the Sahara or Mojave, are scorching hot, while polar deserts, like parts of the Arctic and Antarctica are icy cold.

Biodiversity Rating  ⭐

Low: Deserts have fewer species than more temperate biomes, but those that do live here are well-adapted to the harsh conditions of extreme hot or cold. Sparse vegetation, water-scarcity and extreme temperatures in all desert biomes make survival a challenge for desert-dwellers. However, some life finds a way to thrive even under the most extreme conditions on Earth.

Flora and Fauna

Desert plants are tough and unique. Cacti are well-known for their water-storing abilities, as they retain water in their stems. While other plants like - aloe vera, agave and cape gooseberry - have features like thick, waxy coatings to reduce water loss.

Animals are equally well-suited to the dry conditions. Camels are famously suited to desert life with their ability to go for long periods without water. However, you won’t find other large herbivores like elephants and horses as they are not suited to the dry conditions and lack of grasses. Instead, you will find lots of reptiles, rodents, beetles, ants and termites. Other animals, like snakes, lizards and scorpions are nocturnal, coming to life when temperatures drop. 

At Risk

Desert biomes are expanding due to a combination of climate change and unsustainable land use practices - which cause desertification - a process where fertile land becomes desert. 

Desert biomes still face several threats, including overgrazing, mining, and climate change. 

Mangrove Biome

Location 

Mangroves are found along tropical and subtropical coastlines where land and sea meet, creating a unique blend of salt and freshwater. You can find these unique forests in places like the Everglades in Florida, the Sundarbans in India, and the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. They can be salty, muddy places with tangled root systems which are exposed as the tides go out.

Climate 

Mangroves thrive in warm, coastal areas with high temperatures and high humidity. They’re often found in places where freshwater from rivers meets the salty seawater.

Biodiversity Rating  ⭐⭐⭐⭐

High: Biodiversity Rating: High Mangrove forests are teeming with life! They provide important habitats for a variety of species, from tiny crabs to large fish and birds.

Flora and Fauna

Mangrove forests are known for their tangled root systems and salt-tolerant trees like the red, black and white mangroves. These provide homes to creatures such as mangrove monitor lizards, mudskippers, and a variety of birds. 

The complex root system creates a safe haven for many fish and crustaceans - like crabs. This attracts many vibrant birds soaring above, searching for a tasty treat!

At Risk

Mangroves are threatened by coastal development, pollution, and climate change. Protecting these vital ecosystems is essential for maintaining their ecological benefits and the wildlife that depends on them.

Glossary:

Altitude: The height of something, especially above sea level.

Biodiversity: The variety of different living things in a particular area.

Biome: A large area with a specific climate, landscape, and living organisms.

Climate: The long-term patterns of temperature, humidity, wind, and precipitation in a particular region.

Climate Change: Long-term changes in temperature, precipitation, and other atmospheric conditions on Earth, caused by human activities and natural processes.

Elevation: The height above a specific reference point, usually sea level; can be used interchangeably with altitude.

Fauna: The collective term for animals in a particular region or environment.

Flora: The collective term for plants in a particular region or environment.

Humidity: the amount of moisture or water vapour present in the air. 

Permafrost: A layer of permanently frozen subsoil found in polar regions, which can affect plant and animal life.

Species: A group of organisms that can reproduce with one another and produce fertile offspring.

Xeric: A habitat that is extremely dry.