Biomes Flashcards
Spatial Distribution of Biomes (Latitude Impact)
Latitude: Distance from the equator.
Impact: Affects temperature and sunlight, influencing biomes.
Examples are…
Tropical Rainforest: Low latitude, warm, high rainfall, lush biodiversity.
Grassland: Found in temperate and tropical zones, varies in temperature and rainfall.
Tundra: High latitude, polar, cold, low sunlight and rainfall, minimal vegetation.
Tropical Rainforest
Location: Near the equator (low latitude).
Climate: Warm all year, high rainfall.
Characteristics: Dense forests, rich biodiversity.
Grassland Biome
Location: Found in both tropical (Savannah) and temperate zones.
Climate:
Tropical: Warm, wet/dry seasons.
Temperate: Hot summers, cold winters.
Rainfall: Moderate.
Tundra Biome
Location: High latitudes, polar regions.
Climate: Cold, long dark winters, low sunlight.
Rainfall: Very low.
Vegetation: Sparse, adapted to harsh conditions.
Human Alterations of Biomes
Land Terracing: Hillsides modified for farming, reduces erosion.
Irrigation: Water diversion for crops.
Deforestation: Clearing forests, leads to habitat loss and CO2 increase.
Drainage of Wetlands: Converting for rice or crop farming.
Green Revolution: High-yield crops and advanced techniques.
Crop Rotation & Agroforestry: Maintains soil fertility.
Aquaculture: Controlled fish farming.
Fertilisers & Pesticides: Boost yields, risk pollution.
Urban Agriculture: City-based farming.
Impacts of Deforestation
Habitat Loss: Species extinction.
Climate Change: Reduced CO2 absorption.
Flooding: Less water absorption by soil.
Soil Erosion: Loss of nutrients and fertility.
Positive & Negative Impacts of Farming
Positive: Food security, economic benefits, rural job creation.
Negative: Methane emissions, water scarcity, habitat loss, soil degradation, pollution.
Latitude and Longitude Basics
Order: Latitude first (e.g., 30° N, 180° W).
Australian Coordinates: Always S (latitude) and E (longitude).
Choropleth Maps
Used to show data density (e.g., population, rainfall).
Climate Graphs
Annual Rainfall: Add data points directly.
Temperature Range: Highest temp - lowest temp = range in °C.
Topographic Maps
Contour Lines: Close = steep slope.