How do temperature and rainfall influence biome distribution?

Temperature and rainfall significantly influence biome distribution by determining the types and abundance of plant and animal life.

Biomes are large ecological areas on the earth’s surface, with fauna and flora (animals and plants) adapting to their environment. The two major factors that influence these biomes are temperature and rainfall. These climatic conditions play a crucial role in shaping the characteristics of a biome, including its size, location, and the species that inhabit it.

Temperature is a key determinant as it influences the rate of ecosystem processes. For instance, in colder regions like the tundra, the low temperatures limit plant growth and hence, the biome is characterised by low-lying vegetation and a lack of trees. On the other hand, in warmer regions like the tropical rainforest, the high temperatures promote plant growth leading to a high diversity of plant and animal species. More details on how temperature affects ecological processes can be found on the Atmospheric Pressure and Temperature page.

Rainfall, on the other hand, affects the water availability in a biome. Water is essential for all forms of life and hence, the amount of rainfall a biome receives can greatly influence the types of species that can survive there. For example, deserts receive very little rainfall and therefore support plant and animal life that can survive with minimal water. In contrast, wetlands receive abundant rainfall and are home to a wide variety of water-loving plants and animals. Understanding the Hydrological Cycle can provide further insights into how water influences various biomes.

The combination of temperature and rainfall creates a unique environment in each biome, leading to the development of specific plant and animal communities. For instance, savannahs are characterised by a warm climate with seasonal rainfall, leading to the growth of grasses and scattered trees, and a diverse range of animal life including large mammals like elephants and lions. Learn more about different environments on the Major World Biomes page.

IB ESS Tutor Summary: Temperature and rainfall shape biomes by affecting plant and animal life. Cold temperatures limit growth in places like the tundra, while warmth in the tropical rainforest encourages diverse life. Rainfall determines water availability, influencing species survival in various environments, like deserts and wetlands. Together, these factors create unique ecosystems, such as the grassy savannahs home to large animals.