Exploring the Temperate Rainforest: Climate, Flora, Fauna, and Human Impact
Temperate rainforests, primarily found in North America including British Columbia, receive over 200 cm of rainfall annually. These ecosystems boast mild year-round temperatures, rarely dipping below 0°C, allowing for rich biodiversity. The soil is acidic yet highly fertile due to decomposition, supporting an array of flora such as Douglas Firs, Western Red Cedar, and various mosses. The fauna includes mammals like deer and bears, as well as diverse bird species. However, human activities such as logging and pollution threaten these vital ecosystems.
Exploring the Temperate Rainforest: Climate, Flora, Fauna, and Human Impact
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Presentation Transcript
Temperate Rainforest Hannah Whelan AP Environmental Science Period 2 Whaley
Precipitation • Condensation in canopy is often a major source of precipitation (leaf drip) in the understory. • At least 200 cm per year of rainfall per year.
Temperature Changes • Found commonly in North America/British Columbia • Temperate Rainforests have mild year round temperatures-- mixed with rainfall causes abundant plant life. • The temperature never dips below 0 degrees celsius • Moderates around 25 degrees celsius
Soil Type • Soil in temperate rainforests are more commonly acidic because of the rainfall in the forests • Soil is extremely fertile due to decomposition • Dark in color • Rich and thick in texture
Representative Flaura • Big coniferous trees* • Douglas Firs • Western Red Cedar • Mountain Hemlock • Sitka Spruce • Lodgepole Pine • Mosses / Lichens* • Epiphytes (Symbiotic Relationships) • Fungi* • Warmer conditions grow deciduous trees • Big-Leaf Maple
mosses/lichens fungi Big-Leaf Maple Coniferous Trees
Representative Fauna • Mammals • Deer • Bear • Coyote • Slugs (Gastropods) • Banana Slug • All slugs • Birds • Clark’s Nutcracker • Blue Grouse
Banana Slug Slug Blue Grouse Clark’s Nutcracker
Human Interferences • Pollution • Deforestation • Overpopulation • Logging
Sources • Environmental Science A Global Concern • WIlliam P. Cunningham/ Mary Ann Cunningham • http://www.marietta.edu/~biol/biomes/temprain.htm • http://www.ehow.com/info_7958789_temperate-soil-types.html
