RNR 1001 Chapter : Terrestrial Ecosystems
Document Summary
Large community characterized by its climate and unique assemblage of plants and animals. Not completely separated from other biomes (ecotones), but the strengths of interaction within versus without. Biomes are based on natural climate patterns and subsequent vegetation (not artificial/anthropogenic activities) Interior of continents, often in a rain shadow (little rainfall because it is sheltered from rain-bearing winds by a range of hills) Dominated by sparse drought-resistant shrubs (creosote bush, cactus, and mesquite) short-lived annuals that can bloom quickly after rainfall, or barren (land too poor to produce much vegetation. Farming of semi-arid areas, salinization of integrated desert lands. Desertification- conversion of desert fringes (process whereby marginally productive drylands are converted to essentially unusable desert) Complex process, but removal of vegetation and wind erosion is critical, as are changes in global temperatures and rainfall patterns. Western coast of u. s. , africa, south america, australia, also mediterranean. Area between hot, dry pressure, and cool, wet low pressure.
