APBI 418 Lecture : Biol 121- 2010.01.11- Ecology- Characteristics of Biomes (Ch. 50).docx
Document Summary
Key distinguishing factors (location, temperature, ppt, vegetation, etc) Plants in this biome have broad leaves (opposed to narrow, needle-like leaves), and are evergreen. Older leaves are shed throughout year, but no complete seasonal loss of leaves. In some rainforests, monthly temperatures tend to stay within 25 and 30 c throughout the year almost no seasonal variation in temperature. Important because temperatures are high enough to support growth throughout the year. Even in the driest month nov, region receives over 5 cm (50 mm) considerably more than the annual rainfall of many deserts. Favorable year-round growing conditions produce riotous growth high productivity and above- ground biomass. Diversity of plant sizes and growth forms creates extraordinary structural diversity. Few extremely large trees tower over a layer of large trees that form a distinctive canopy, creating a wide array of habitat types for animals. Found in two distinctive locations: 30 degrees latitude, both n and s.
