SNC 1 D BIOMES Ecology Note 3 Biomes

SNC 1 D BIOMES Ecology Note #3

Biomes • Biome: a collection of ecosystems that are similar or related to each other. • (Usually plant life supported by the local climate determines a biome). • Canada has 4 major biomes: Tundra, Boreal Forest, Temperate Deciduous Forest and Grasslands.

Tundra • North latitude, cold desert, supports few organisms. Where the permafrost ends, the boreal forest starts. Short growing season, permafrost layer beneath soil, poor soil quality.

Boreal Forest • South of tundra, coniferous (needles) trees, found in every province and makes up ~80% of Canada’s forest. No permafrost, various weather, soil is acidic.

Temperate Deciduous Forest • South of boreal forest, deciduous trees (shed leaves), huge biodiversity as it supports life at three levels: canopy, understorey and litter. Longer growing season than boreal forest, fertile soil.

Grasslands • At same latitude as deciduous forests, exist between Eastern Manitoba and Rocky Mountains (Alberta/BC border). Long growing season, rich fertile soil, high temperatures.

Mountain Forest • West Coast Canada – temperatures vary with elevation, cool summers, heavy precipitation on leeward side of mountains, windy, fast-flow rivers.

Class/Home work • Page 55 #1, 2, 3, 7, 8 • Page 59 #1 – 6 • Page 62 #1, 2, 5, 6