Distribution of peatlands Flashcards
Where regions can peatlands form>? (3)
Temperate, boreal and sub-artic
Lowland humid tropics
Other regions
Why do peatlands form in temperate, boreal and sub-artic regions?
Where low-temperatures reduce the rate of decomposition, peat is formed daily from bryophytes (mostly sphagnum mosses), herbs, shrubs and small trees
Why do peatlands form in the lowland humid tropics?
Peat is derived mostly from rain forest trees (leaves, branches, trunks and roots) under near constant annual high temperatures
Why do peatlands form in other geographical regions?
Peat can be formed from other species of plants that are able to grow in water-saturated conditions
Where else can peatlands form?
New Zealand and Tropical coastal fringes
Why can peatlands form in New Zealand and Tropical Coastal Fringes?
Peat is formed from members of the Restionacreae in NZ and in TCF peat is formed in mangrove
