Desert Biomes
What is a desert biome?
A desert biome is a region that receives very little rainfall and has extreme temperatures, either very hot or very cold.
How does sunlight affect life in different parts of the ocean biome?
Sunlight determines where photosynthesis can occur
What is the difference between primary succession and secondary succession?
Primary succession occurs in areas where no soil is present, such as after a volcanic eruption or glacier retreat. Secondary succession occurs in areas where soil already exists but the ecosystem has been disturbed, such as after a fire or flood.
How does urbanization affect natural ecosystems?
A. Increases biodiversity
B. Creates more farmland
C. Destroys habitats
D. Improves soil fertility
C. Destroys habitats
Why are rainforest soils often nutrient‑poor despite supporting dense plant growth?
Possible answers:
*Heavy rainfall washes nutrients out of the soil.
*Nutrients are stored mainly in living plants, not the soil.
*Decomposed material is quickly reused by plants, leaving little in the ground.
Why do deserts often experience large temperature changes between day and night?
A lack of cloud cover allows rapid heating and cooling
What are the five types of organisms that live in ocean biomes?
Plankton, fish, sea turtles, whales, and coral.
Why are pioneer species important in ecological succession? Give one example of a pioneer species.
Pioneer species are important because they are the first organisms to colonize an area and help create conditions suitable for other species.
Example: Lichens or mosses.
List one way human activities contribute to climate change?
Possible answers:
What are two major human threats to rainforest biomes?
Deforestation and climate change
Which adaptation is most common in desert reptiles?
Basking and burrowing
Which adaptation helps organisms survive in deep ocean zones with little light?
Bioluminescence
After a wildfire, grasses begin growing in the burned area, followed by shrubs and then trees. What type of succession is this, and why?
This is secondary succession because the soil remains after the wildfire, allowing plants like grasses to regrow first, followed by shrubs and trees.
How can humans reduce their negative impact on the environment?
Possible answers
*Recycle materials
*Conserve water and electricity.
*Protect forests and wildlife
What is a key climate feature of tropical rainforests?
A. Cold temperatures and low rainfall
B. Seasonal droughts
C. Warm temperatures and heavy rainfall
D. Freezing winters
C. Warm temperatures and heavy rainfall
Why is biodiversity generally lower in deserts compared to tropical rainforests?
Extreme conditions limit the number of species that can survive
How do organisms that live in ocean biomes adapt to their environment?
Many are adapted by having gills to breathe underwater, streamlined bodies for swimming, or special features like bioluminescence to survive in deep, dark water.
How does ecological succession help increase biodiversity in an ecosystem over time?
Ecological succession increases biodiversity because different species move into an area over time. As conditions improve, animals can survive, leading to a more stable and diverse ecosystem
Which human activity is the main cause of deforestation worldwide?
A. Volcanic eruptions
B. Urban expansion and agriculture
C. Earthquakes
D. Natural wildfires
B. Urban expansion and agriculture
What human activity is the largest threat to rainforest biomes?
Deforestation
Name places where desert biomes are commonly found around the world.
The Sahara Desert in Africa, the Mojave Desert in North America, and the Gobi Desert in Asia.
How does temperature change with depth in the ocean, and why does it matter for organisms?
How does temperature change with depth in the ocean, and why does it matter for organisms?
What role does soil formation play in ecological succession?
Soil formation allows plants to grow by providing nutrients and a place for roots to anchor. When the soil develops, more plants can survive.
How does deforestation affect biodiversity and local ecosystems?
Deforestation destroys habitats, causing many plant and animal species to lose their homes.
Describe the climate of tropical rainforests and how it supports biodiversity.
.
Rainforests are warm year‑round with heavy rainfall, which allows plants to grow continuously and support many species.