Show
Updated on December 01, 2019 The grassland biome includes terrestrial habitats that are dominated by grasses and have relatively few large trees or shrubs. There are three main types of grasslands—temperate grasslands, tropical grasslands (also known as savannas), and steppe grasslands. Grassland Biome Key CharacteristicsThe following are the key characteristics of the grassland biome:
ClassificationThe grassland biome is divided into the following habitats:
Sufficient RainfallMost grasslands experience a dry season and a rainy season. During the dry season, grasslands can be susceptible to fires, which often start as a result of lightning strikes. The annual rainfall in a grassland habitat is greater than the annual rainfall that occurs in desert habitats, and while they receive enough rain to grow grasses and other scrubby plants, it's not enough to support the growth of significant numbers of trees. The soils of grasslands also limit the vegetation structure that grows in them. Grassland soils are generally too shallow and dry to support tree growth. Variety of WildlifeSome common plant species that occur in grasslands include buffalo grass, asters, coneflowers, clover, goldenrods, and wild indigos. Grasslands support a variety of animal wildlife as well, including reptiles, mammals, amphibians, birds and many types of invertebrates. The dry grasslands of Africa are among the most ecologically diverse of all grasslands and support populations of animals such as giraffes, zebras, and rhinoceroses. The grasslands of Australia provide habitat for kangaroos, mice, snakes, and a variety of birds. The grasslands of North America and Europe support wolves, wild turkeys, coyotes, Canadian geese, cranes, bobcats, and eagles. Additional grassland wildlife includes:
Watch Now: What Is a Biome?What are the main features of grasslands?The following are the key characteristics of the grassland biome:. Vegetation structure that is dominated by grasses.. Semi-arid climate.. Rainfall and soils insufficient to support significant tree growth.. Most common at mid-latitudes and near the interiors of continents.. Grasslands are often exploited for agricultural use.. What are the main features of the temperate grasslands?Temperate grasslands have cold winters and warm summers with some rain. The grasses die back to their roots annually and the soil and the sod protect the roots and the new buds from the cold of winter or dry conditions. A few trees may be found in this biome along the streams, but not many due to the lack of rainfall.
Which conditions are characteristic of the grassland biome quizlet?Grasslands are usually associated with warm, moist summers and cold, dry winters.
What 3 factors determine what kinds of plants grow in a particular grassland?Latitude, soil and local climates for the most part determine what kinds of plants grow in a particular grassland.
|