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Maharashtra State BoardSSC (English Medium) 8th Standard
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Syllabus

Land Biomes

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Topics

  • Introduction of Land Biomes
  • Grassland Ecosystem
  • Evergreen Forest Ecosystem

Introduction of Land Biomes:

Land biomes are ecosystems found exclusively on land. They are influenced by factors such as temperature, precipitation, soil type, and altitude. Different types of land biomes exist due to the uneven distribution of these abiotic factors. Examples include grasslands, evergreen forests, deserts, tundras, taigas, and tropical rainforests. Each biome hosts unique plant and animal life, contributing to Earth's biodiversity and ecological balance.

Grassland Ecosystem:

Grasslands are biomes characterised by vast expanses of grass and limited tree cover. These ecosystems are usually found in regions where rainfall is moderate but insufficient to support dense forests.

Grassland

1. Climate
  • Moderate rainfall (25–75 cm annually).
  • Hot summers and mild winters, often experiencing prolonged dry periods.
2. Vegetation
  • Dominated by grasses such as buffalo grass, feather grass, and ryegrass.
  • Shrubs and dwarf plants may grow in scattered patches.
  • Trees are rare but might include acacias or small clusters near water sources.
3. Soil
  • Fertile and rich in nutrients, ideal for agriculture.
  • Soil retains moisture well, supporting grass growth.

Animal Life:

1. Herbivores Animals like zebras, giraffes, elephants, deer, antelope, and kangaroos graze on grasses.
2. Carnivores Predators like lions, cheetahs, and tigers hunt herbivores, maintaining ecological balance.
3. Omnivores and Small Mammals Includes species like jackals, prairie dogs, and armadillos.
4. Birds Bustards, quails, ostriches, and other ground-nesting birds thrive in grasslands.
5. Insects Grasshoppers, beetles, and butterflies contribute to pollination and decomposition.
6. Microorganisms Fungi and bacteria break down organic matter, enriching the soil.

Types of Grassland:

1. Tropical Grasslands (Savannas): Found in Africa, South America, and India. It is known for tall grasses that can grow several feet high.

  • Experience seasonal rainfall, typically alternating between a wet and dry season.
  • Scattered trees and shrubs are present, often near water sources.
  • Warm temperatures prevail throughout the year.
  • Home to diverse wildlife, including elephants, zebras, giraffes, lions, and cheetahs.

2. Temperate Grasslands: Found in North America (prairies), Europe (steppes), and South America (pampas). It is characterised by shorter grasses compared to tropical grasslands.

  • Experience colder winters and warmer summers.
  • Receive moderate rainfall, usually less than tropical grasslands.
  • Fewer trees or shrubs due to harsher conditions.
  • Support species like bison, prairie dogs, foxes, and hawks.

Evergreen Forest Ecosystem:

Evergreen forests are dense biomes where trees retain their leaves throughout the year, ensuring constant greenery. These ecosystems are common in tropical and subtropical regions as well as in temperate zones.

Forest ecosystem

1. Climate
  • High and consistent rainfall in tropical regions (above 200 cm annually).
  • Moderate rainfall in temperate evergreen forests.
  • Mild to warm temperatures year-round.
2. Vegetation
  • Dominated by trees like pines, cedars, firs, eucalyptus, and mahogany.
  • Shrubs, ferns, mosses, and climbers grow in abundance.
  • Thick canopy blocks sunlight, leading to sparse ground vegetation.
3. Soil
  • Rich in organic matter but often acidic due to decaying plant material.

Animal Life:

1. Mammals Tigers, leopards, monkeys, sloths, elephants, and deer find shelter in these forests.
2. Birds Parrots, hornbills, woodpeckers, and other species nest in tree canopies.
3. Reptiles Include snakes, lizards, and turtles, adapted to both the forest floor and trees.
4. Insects Termites, ants, and beetles thrive, aiding in decomposition and pollination.
5. Amphibians Frogs and toads rely on the moisture-rich environment.
6. Microorganisms Break down fallen leaves and contribute to nutrient recycling.

Types of Evergreen Forests:

1. Tropical Evergreen Forests: Found in the Amazon Basin, Southeast Asia, and parts of Africa. Located in warm, humid climates with high and consistent rainfall.

  • It is known for immense biodiversity, hosting a wide variety of plants, animals, and microorganisms.
  • Towering trees such as mahogany, ebony, and rosewood form a dense canopy that blocks sunlight.
  • Understory vegetation includes ferns, mosses, and climbers.
  • Home to species like jaguars, parrots, snakes, and frogs.

2. Temperate Evergreen Forests: Found in regions like the Pacific Northwest (USA), New Zealand, and parts of Europe. It involves mainly coniferous trees like pines, spruces, and firs, which are adapted to colder climates.

  • Located in regions with moderate rainfall and cooler temperatures compared to tropical regions.
  • Trees retain their leaves or needles year-round, maintaining constant greenery.
  • Wildlife includes bears, wolves, deer, and various bird species like owls and woodpeckers.
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