Biomes Lecture Notes

Definition of a Biome

• A biome is an area classified based on the species that inhabit it.
• Factors defining a biome include:
  • Temperature range
  • Soil type
  • Amount of light and water
• Scientists disagree on the number of biomes:
  • Some count six major biomes: forest, grassland, freshwater, marine, desert, and tundra.
  • Others count eight, adding tropical savannah and separating types of forests.
  • Some specific categorizations list up to 11 biomes.

Grades and Subjects

• Grades: 3 - 12+
• Subjects covered: Physical Geography, Biology, Ecology, Earth Science

Characteristics of Biomes

• Defined by resident biota (plants and animals).
• Scientific debate exists on what precisely constitutes a biome.

Educational Tools and Resources

MapMaker: Biomes

• Use this tool to visualize Earth's biomes such as:
  • Forests
  • Grasslands
  • Mangroves
  • Ice regions
• Targeted at Grades 9 - 12+

Biome Distribution and Formation

• Lesson on how natural processes dictate biome distribution worldwide.
• Uses MapMaker, a digital mapping tool.
• Grades 6 - 8

Incorporating Humans in Biomes

• New definitions include humans as part of the environment.

Related Concepts

• Ecosystem: Geographic areas where biotic and abiotic factors interact.
• Habitat: A place where organisms make their home.
• Climate: Long-term weather patterns in a specific area.
• Zones: Areas separated by natural or artificial boundaries.

Specific Biomes and Ecosystems

• Rainforest:
  • Region of tall trees with high rainfall.
  • Grades 9 - 12+
• Coral Reefs:
  • Facing risks; important for ocean health.
  • Grades 6 - 12+
• Taiga:
  • Subarctic forest biomes.
  • Grades 4 - 12+
• Deserts:
  • Areas with minimal precipitation.
  • Grades 6 - 12+

Environments and Human Interactions

• Living Shoreline:
  • Coastal management to protect habitats.
• Prairie:
  • Flat grasslands, moderate climate.
  • Grades 7 - 12+

Educational Support

• National Geographic offers resources for learning about biomes and associated ecological and geographical concepts.

Note: Continual updates and educational materials are available through National Geographic’s platforms.