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Biomes: Exploring Nature’s Neighbourhoods

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!

 

A map showing World Biomes of the 14 Terrestrial Biomes as classified by the World Wildlife Fund
A World Biomes Map showing the 14 Terrestrial Biomes as classified by the World Wildlife Fund

 

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

The distribution of tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forest biomes
The distribution of tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forest biomes

 

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.

A photo of a rainforest
A rainforest

 

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!

 

Fun Facts

  1. Medicinal Plants: Many medicines we use today come from plants found only in rainforests. For example, quinine, used to treat malaria, comes from the bark of a tree in the Amazon!
  2. Continuous Growth: Unlike other biomes, tropical rainforests don't have a winter. The trees and plants grow continuously throughout the year!
  3. The lungs of the planet: Tropical rainforests produce around 20% of the world’s oxygen.

 

A photo of Bromeliads plants
Bromeliads are good for digestion and pain relief.

 

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

A map showing the distribution of tropical and subtropical dry broadleaf forest biomes
The distribution of tropical and subtropical dry broadleaf forest biomes

 

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.

Dry tropical forest in the dry season
Dry tropical forest in the dry season

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.

 

Fun Facts

Teak and Ebony Trees: Some of the world's most valuable hardwoods, like teak and ebony, grow in these forests. These trees are prized for their strong, water-resistant wood.

Unique Wildlife: Animals like the Sri Lankan elephant and the Madagascar giant jumping rat are found only in these biomes.

 

A photo of a Madagascan Jumping Rat
A Madagascan Jumping Rat

 

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

The distribution of tropical and subtropical coniferous forest biomes
The distribution of tropical and subtropical coniferous forest biomes

 

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.

A photo of a Himalayan Coniferous Forest
A Himalayan Coniferous Forest

 

 

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.

A photo of A Red Panda
A Red Panda

 

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.

A Golden Langur
A Golden Langur

 

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.

 

Fun Fact

Conifer Adaptations: The pine needles of conifer trees are uniquely adapted to conserve water, making them well-suited to the drier conditions of this biome.

 

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

The distribution of the temperate broadleaf and mixed forest biomes
The distribution of the temperate broadleaf and mixed forest biomes

 

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.

A temperate broadleaf and mixed forest in Autumn
A temperate broadleaf and mixed forest in Autumn

 

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.

 

Fun Fact

The forests go through dramatic transformations across the seasons, with autumn turning the landscape into a sea of reds, oranges, and yellows as the leaves change colour before falling!

 

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.

Great Spotted Woodpecker
Great Spotted Woodpecker

 

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.

A photo of New Zealand’s National Bird the Kiwi
New Zealand’s National Bird: the Kiwi

 

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

The distribution of the temperate coniferous forest biomeshel
The distribution of the temperate coniferous forest biomeshel

 

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.

A pine forest in Norway
A pine forest in Norway

 

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.

A picture of a moose
Moose are herbivores and will eat pine needles but prefer softer willow!

At Risk 

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

 

 

 


 

Boreal Forests / Taiga Biome

A map showing The distribution of boreal forest biomes
The distribution of boreal forest biomes

 

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.

The Taiga
The Taiga

 

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.

 

Fun Fact

  • New Kid On The Block: The taiga is relatively young compared to other biomes as it covers land that was once under ice during the last Ice Age.

 

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.

Ripe Cloudberries
Ripe Cloudberrie

 

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!

Snowshoe hare
Snowshoe hare

 

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

A map showing The distribution of tropical and subtropical grassland, savanna and shrubland biomes
The distribution of tropical and subtropical grassland, savanna and shrubland biomes

 

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.

Herds of antelope and zebra
Herds of antelope and zebra

 

Fun Facts

  • Elephant Grass: Named for its height, this giant grass can grow up to 4 metres tall—about the same height as an elephant! It’s a tasty treat for many grazing animals.
  • Fireproof: The dry season can lead to fires, but many plants here are fireproof! Some even have seeds that need fire to start growing—pretty cool, right?

 

A picture of Elephant grass
Elephant grass

 

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

A map of The distribution of temperate grassland, savanna and shrubland biomes
The distribution of temperate grassland, savanna and shrubland biomes

 

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.

Wildflower Prairie
Wildflower Prairie

 

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.

 

Fun Facts

  • Grazing Giants: Once, huge herds of bison and antelope roamed across these grasslands, feeding on the abundant grasses.

 

Bison
Bison

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

A map of The distribution of flooded grassland and savanna biomes
The distribution of flooded grassland and savanna biomes

 

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.

Water lilies and migratory birds in the Pantanal
Water lilies and migratory birds in the Pantanal

 

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!

A saltwater crocodile
A saltwater crocodile

 

Fun Fact

  • Water Wonders: Many animals, such as hippos and crocodiles, are specially adapted to the watery environments of these floodplains. Hippos can hold their breath underwater for several minutes, while crocodiles are expert swimmers and hunters in the water.

 

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

A map showing The distribution of montane grassland and shrubland biomes
The distribution of montane grassland and shrubland biomes

 

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. 

The Tibetan Plateau
The Tibetan Plateau

 

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.

 

Fun Fact

  • Mountain Climbers: Animals like mountain goats, yak, and snow leopards have strong limbs to help them navigate the steep, rocky slopes. Snow leopards also have long tails to help with balance as they leap across rocks and snowy cliffs.

 

A picture of a Snow leopard
Snow leopard

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.

Edelweiss growing on a rocky surface
Edelweiss growing on a rocky surface

 

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

The distribution of tundra biomes
The distribution of tundra biomes

 

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.

Tundra in Iceland
Tundra in Iceland

 

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!

 

Fun Facts

  • Permafrost: The ground in the tundra is often frozen just below the surface, a layer called permafrost. This makes it difficult for deep-rooted plants to grow.
  • Survival Superstars: Animals like polar bears and Arctic foxes have thick fur to insulate them from the freezing temperatures. Even smaller animals like the lemming have adapted to burrow under the snow for warmth.

 

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!

A polar bear out hunting
A polar bear out hunting

 


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.

A snowy owl glides over the tundra
A snowy owl glides over the tundra

 

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

A map showing The distribution of mediterranean forest, woodland and scrub biomes
The distribution of mediterranean forest, woodland and scrub biomes

 

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!

Mediterranean landscape
Mediterranean landscape

 

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.

 

Fun Facts:

  • Biodiversity hotspots: These biomes house 10% of the world's plant species! That’s a lot of plants crammed into these relatively small areas. 
  • Fragrant Landscapes: Ever smelled rosemary or lavender? These aromatic plants are native to Mediterranean areas, filling the air with a fresh, herbal scent.

 

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!

Proteas blooming
Proteas blooming

 

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. 

Iberian lynx in a Spanish forest
Iberian lynx in a Spanish forest

 

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

A map showing The distribution of desert and xeric shrubland biomes
The distribution of desert and xeric shrubland biomes

 

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.

Desert biome
Desert biome

 

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.

 

Fun Fact 

Desert Blooms: Some desert plants, like the cactus, can store water in their stems. After a rare rainfall, the desert can burst into colour with blooming flowers!

 

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.

A cactus forest
A cactus forest

 

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. 

A rattlesnake
A rattlesnake

 

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

A map showing The distribution of mangrove biomes
The distribution of mangrove biomes

 

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.

A red mangrove forest
A red mangrove forest

 

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.

 

Fun Fact 

Tidal Giants: Mangroves are like nature’s water filters. They help protect coastal areas from erosion and filter pollutants out of the water, keeping our coastal waters cleaner and healthier.

 

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. 

A picture of a mudskipper fish
The mudskipper fish - you can see where it got its name!

 

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!

A picture of a Great Blue Heron
The Great Blue Heron

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.

Explore our Biome and Climate Lessons for KS1 and KS2!

 

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