LW - Temperate Deciduous Forest Flashcards
1
Q
What is the climate in a deciduous forest?
A
- Rainfall distributed evenly throughout the year
- Moderate temperatures high = 25 degrees low = 4 degrees
- Growing season lasts for 7 months
2
Q
What is the different between Deciduous and Coniferous trees?
A
- Deciduous trees e.g oak, beach, birch and ash trees shed leaves in the autumn.
- Coniferous trees keep their leaves
3
Q
Why do deciduous trees shed leaves?
A
- To conserve water loss from stomata in winter.
- Response to reductions in light + heat.
4
Q
Why can leaf fall come early?
A
When there has been a shortage of water
5
Q
What are characteristics of the soil?
A
- Rich and fertile brown soil
- Active weathering provides high levels of nutrients
- Annual leaf fall enriches the soil
- Rainfall carries nutrients to the soil and plants
6
Q
What is the stratification in the forest (bottom to top) and give examples of plants for each.
A
Canopy: oak
Sub-canopy: hazel
Herb layer: brambles and bluebells
Ground layer: moss because it is dark and moist
7
Q
When do plants such as bluebells spring?
A
In early spring before the canopy has fully developed
8
Q
Where are temperate deciduous forests found?
A
- North West Europe
- America
- East Asia
- Above the latitude of the Tropic of Cancer
