Boreal Forest Or Taiga

Boreal forest or taiga

World distribution

The boreal forest, also known as Taiga, a Russian word that recognizes the swampy nature of much of this forest in the summer, lies to the south of the tundra and to the north of deciduous forests and grasslands. On this map the southern extension of the boreal forests into eastern North America along the Appalachian Mountains is shown, while the coniferous forests of the western North American mountains is not.

Biotic factor:

Plants: firs and pines, spruces, hemlocks, and larches. Pine cone, Fir, Polytrichum Moss, British Soldiers, a Lichen, Another Lichen, Moss growing, Giant Sequoia.

Animals: Bobcat, Elk, Porcupine, Amur Tigers, Snowshoe Hare.

Abiotic factor:

Climate in the taiga is cold, with average annual temperatures from about +5° to -5° C (see figure at right). Precipitation varies, from about 20 cm of precipitation per year to over 200 cm. The winters are cold and long; summers are relatively short and cool.

Water plays an important role in the boreal forest.

Flora y fauna:

Flora: Many plant species are found in the Taiga, but coniferous trees are obviously the dominant plant form. These trees shed snow easily, and they retain their needles through the winter. The needles themselves are well-adapted, with thick waxy coatings and small surface area, to resist cold conditions and minimize water loss, an important consideration even in the swampy taiga where water may be frozen much of the year. Together, these adaptations mean that even in cool conditions, if the temperature rises above freezing during the day photosynthesis can proceed.

Animal life: staying warm is the major challenge for animals. Most have small extremities and extra insulation in the form of fat or downy feathers. Some migrate to warmer areas in winter.

Plant life: conifers are well suited to the boreal-forest environment. Their conical shape shed snow, and their wax-covered needlelike leaves prevent excess water loss. In addition, the dark green color of most conifers absorbs heat energy.

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