Biome Definition

Biome Definition: Classification, Map, Types, Examples, Facts, Examples

Edited By Irshad Anwar | Updated on Jul 02, 2025 05:29 PM IST

A biome is a large ecological area on Earth where living organisms, such as plants, animals and micro-organisms adapt to the climate, temperature, and soil type. Deserts, forests, grasslands, and aquatic regions are all examples of biomes. This concept is from the Class 12 chapter Ecosystem in Biology. Understanding the biome definition helps students know ecosystem diversity and how various life forms are interconnected.

This Story also Contains

Biome Definition
Biome Classification
Recommended Video on Biome

A biome refers to a large area on Earth with its unique types of plants, animals, and climate. Biomes are defined by weather, temperature, soil, and living organisms adapted to those conditions. For example, a desert biome is hot and dry and has only plants like cacti and animals like camels, who can survive with minimal water. On the other hand, a rainforest biome is warm and humid, full of tall trees and animals such as monkeys, birds, and insects. Each biome has its unique ecosystem, comprising all living (plants, animals, and microorganisms) and non-living components interacting.

There are different types of biomes on Earth, ranging from forests, grasslands, deserts, tundras, and aquatic biomes that include oceans and rivers. All of the given biomes support different kinds of life. Polar bears live in the cold tundra biome, whereas dolphins and fish can be found in an ocean biome. This is what makes Earth such a diverse place, full of various forms of life. The study of biomes allows scientists to understand how different environments affect living organisms and how an organism survives in its particular habitat.

Read More:

NEET Highest Scoring Chapters & Topics

Know Most Scoring Concepts in NEET 2024 Based on Previous Year Analysis.

Know More

Biome Classification

Biomes are classified based on climate, vegetation, and geographical features. Each biome supports specific plants and animals adapted to its unique conditions.

Terrestrial and Land Biome

The basic difference is discussed below:

Terrestrial Biome	Land Biome
Large geographical areas which are classified by climatic conditions and dominant flora and fauna	This is the stable and mature biological community which results in long-term evolutionary development.
These are based on climate, soil and type of vegetation that exists there.	It is identified by dominant plant species that have adapted to the local environment.
It provides a habitat for different types of organisms and also influences ecological processes and interactions.	There are primary producers in the ecosystem who provide food and have their own for the various animal species present there.
Various animal species completely survive on the available resources and environmental conditions.	It is controlled by the animal population through the availability of resources and habitat from the dominant vegetation.

Aquatic or Aquatic Biome

The most stable ecosystems on Earth are those found in aquatic biomes, and without water, most living forms would be unable to survive, leaving the world in a dead, desert-like state.

Marine Biomes	Fresh Water Biomes
These are saltwater environments which includes ocean, coral reefs and seas.	These are freshwater environments by own consist of rivers Lake ponds and wetlands.
It is high in salinity, which is typically 3.5% of the salt concentration. It affects the species composition and ecosystem dynamics in this biome.	It has a low salinity level which is one percent or even less than that of the salt concentration.
It has a vast variety of species which includes Marine mammals fishes and complex ecosystems like coral reefs.	It supports different organisms like fish, amphibians insects and aquatic plants. It has generally a lower biodiversity when compared to Marine biomes.
It contributes between 72-85% of the earth's atmospheric oxygen which is the true photosynthesis of Marine plants like phytoplankton.	It contributes to less Global oxygen production as compared to Marine biomes.

Also Read

Ecological Succession	Nutrient Cycling
Acclimatization	Carbon Cycle
Phosphorous Cycle	Net Primary Productivity

Recommended Video on Biome

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are biomes?

A biome is a biogeographical unit consisting of a biological community that has formed in response to the physical environment in which they are found and a shared regional climate.

2. How many types of biomes are there?

There are various biomes. They can be categorized into terrestrial and aquatic biomes.

3. Are there subcategories of biomes as well?

Yes, there are subcategories depending on the geographical regions of the biomes.

4. Are biome and biota the same?

Yes, biome and biota are the same.

5. Is climate change impacting all the biomes?

Yes, climate change is impacting all the biomes.

6. How do abiotic factors influence the classification of biomes?

Abiotic factors, such as temperature, precipitation, and soil type, play a crucial role in biome classification. These non-living components shape the environment, determining which plants and animals can survive in a particular area. For example, the amount of rainfall influences whether an area becomes a desert or a tropical rainforest.

7. What role does latitude play in the distribution of biomes?

Latitude significantly influences biome distribution due to its effect on climate. As you move from the equator towards the poles, temperature and sunlight availability change, leading to different biomes. For instance, tropical rainforests are found near the equator, while tundra biomes occur at high latitudes near the poles.

8. What is the relationship between biomes and climate zones?

Biomes are closely linked to climate zones. Each biome corresponds to a particular climate type, characterized by specific temperature and precipitation patterns. For example, the tundra biome is associated with polar climates, while tropical rainforests are found in equatorial climates with high rainfall and consistent temperatures.

9. Why are biomes important for understanding global biodiversity?

Biomes provide a framework for understanding global biodiversity patterns. By studying biomes, scientists can identify how species are distributed across the planet, predict how climate change might affect ecosystems, and develop conservation strategies. Biomes also help us understand the interconnectedness of life on Earth and the importance of preserving diverse habitats.

10. How do ecotones contribute to biodiversity within and between biomes?

Ecotones are transition areas between two biomes. These zones often have higher biodiversity than the surrounding biomes because they contain species from both adjacent ecosystems. Ecotones also provide unique habitats that support species specially adapted to these transitional environments, contributing to overall biodiversity.

11. What is a biome and how does it differ from an ecosystem?

A biome is a large geographical area characterized by distinct plant and animal species adapted to a specific climate. It differs from an ecosystem in scale and diversity. While an ecosystem can be as small as a pond, a biome encompasses multiple ecosystems across a vast area with similar climatic conditions, vegetation, and wildlife.

12. How do biomes differ from biosphere?

Biomes are distinct biological communities within the biosphere. The biosphere encompasses all living things on Earth and their interactions with the environment. Biomes, on the other hand, are specific regions within the biosphere characterized by particular climatic conditions and dominant plant and animal species.

13. What is the concept of biome resilience, and why is it important in the context of climate change?

Biome resilience refers to the ability of a biome to maintain its essential structure, function, and feedbacks when faced with environmental changes or disturbances. It's crucial in the context of climate change because resilient biomes are better able to adapt to changing conditions and continue providing ecosystem services. Understanding and enhancing biome resilience is key to conservation efforts in a changing world.

14. What is biome succession and how does it occur?

Biome succession is the gradual change in the dominant plant and animal species within a biome over time. It can occur naturally due to changes in climate or disturbances like fires or floods. Human activities can also trigger succession. For instance, abandoned farmland may gradually transition from grassland to forest if left undisturbed.

15. How do keystone species influence biome characteristics?

Keystone species have a disproportionate impact on their environment relative to their abundance. They play a crucial role in maintaining the structure and function of a biome. For example, beavers in North American forests create wetlands that support diverse ecosystems, while sea otters in kelp forests control sea urchin populations, preserving kelp habitats.

16. How do biomes adapt to seasonal changes?

Biomes adapt to seasonal changes through various strategies. In deciduous forests, trees shed leaves in winter to conserve energy. In grasslands, plants may become dormant during dry seasons. Animals in different biomes may migrate, hibernate, or change their behavior and physiology to cope with seasonal variations in temperature and resource availability.

17. How do human activities impact biome distribution and characteristics?

Human activities significantly impact biomes through deforestation, urbanization, agriculture, and climate change. These actions can alter biome boundaries, reduce biodiversity, and disrupt ecosystem functions. For example, clearing tropical rainforests for agriculture can lead to desertification, effectively changing the biome type in that area.

18. What is the relationship between biomes and carbon cycling?

Biomes play a vital role in the global carbon cycle. Different biomes store and release carbon at varying rates. For instance, tropical rainforests and boreal forests are significant carbon sinks, while some grasslands and tundra regions can become carbon sources due to permafrost thaw. Understanding these relationships is crucial for climate change research and mitigation strategies.

19. How do invasive species affect biome characteristics and biodiversity?

Invasive species can significantly alter biome characteristics by outcompeting native species, changing food webs, and modifying habitat structures. They can reduce biodiversity by displacing native species and homogenizing ecosystems. For instance, the introduction of rabbits to Australia dramatically altered grassland and forest biomes, leading to soil erosion and the decline of native species.

20. How do biomes influence atmospheric circulation patterns?

Biomes influence atmospheric circulation through their effects on albedo (reflectivity), evapotranspiration, and carbon dioxide absorption. For instance, large forests like the Amazon rainforest create their own weather patterns through high evapotranspiration rates. Desert biomes, with high albedo, reflect more sunlight and influence regional temperature patterns. These interactions are crucial for understanding global climate dynamics.

21. How do biomes influence human cultural diversity?

Biomes have significantly influenced human cultural diversity by shaping traditional lifestyles, diets, clothing, shelter, and cultural practices. For example, nomadic cultures have developed in grassland biomes, while complex agricultural societies emerged in areas with fertile soils and predictable rainfall. Understanding this relationship helps explain global patterns of cultural diversity and human adaptation to different environments.

22. What is the relationship between biomes and global freshwater distribution?

Biomes significantly influence global freshwater distribution through their effects on precipitation patterns, evapotranspiration rates, and water storage. For instance, tropical rainforests create their own rainfall through high evapotranspiration, while large forest biomes can affect continental water cycles. Understanding this relationship is crucial for managing water resources and predicting the impacts of land-use changes on water availability.

23. How do biomes influence global patterns of genetic diversity?

Biomes influence global patterns of genetic diversity by providing diverse environmental conditions that drive adaptation and speciation. Regions with stable biomes over long periods, such as tropical rainforests, often have high genetic diversity due to long-term evolution and specialization. In contrast, recently glaciated areas may have lower genetic diversity. Understanding these patterns is important for conservation genetics and predicting species' adaptive potential to environmental changes.

24. How do biomes influence the global distribution of animal mating systems?

Biomes influence animal mating systems through their effects on resource distribution, population density, and habitat structure. For instance, resource-rich biomes like tropical rainforests often support polygynous mating systems where males compete for multiple females. In contrast, harsh environments like tundra may favor monogamous systems where both parents are needed to raise offspring. Understanding these patterns is important for animal behavior studies and conservation efforts.

25. What is the difference between terrestrial and aquatic biomes?

Terrestrial biomes are land-based, such as forests, grasslands, and deserts. Aquatic biomes are water-based, including freshwater biomes (lakes, rivers) and marine biomes (oceans, coral reefs). The main differences lie in the physical environment, dominant organisms, and adaptations required for survival in each type of biome.

26. How do fire regimes differ across biomes, and why is this important?

Fire regimes vary significantly across biomes due to differences in climate, vegetation, and natural fire cycles. Some biomes, like savannas and certain forests, are adapted to regular fires, which play a role in nutrient cycling and maintaining biodiversity. In contrast, tropical rainforests are not adapted to frequent fires. Understanding these differences is crucial for ecosystem management and conservation.

27. How do soil characteristics influence biome distribution and plant adaptations?

Soil characteristics, including texture, pH, nutrient content, and water-holding capacity, significantly influence biome distribution and plant adaptations. For example, the acidic, nutrient-poor soils of boreal forests support coniferous trees adapted to these conditions. In contrast, the rich, deep soils of temperate deciduous forests allow for diverse tree species with extensive root systems.

28. What is the relationship between biomes and global wind patterns?

Global wind patterns play a crucial role in shaping biomes by influencing precipitation and temperature patterns. For instance, the trade winds create wet and dry sides of mountains, leading to rainforests on one side and deserts on the other. Understanding this relationship helps explain why certain biomes occur where they do on a global scale.

29. How do biomes influence the water cycle, and vice versa?

Biomes both influence and are influenced by the water cycle. Vegetation in biomes affects evapotranspiration rates, cloud formation, and local precipitation patterns. Conversely, the amount and distribution of precipitation shape the types of plants and animals that can survive in a given biome. This reciprocal relationship is crucial for understanding global water distribution and climate patterns.

30. What is the concept of biome productivity, and how does it vary across different biomes?

Biome productivity refers to the rate at which biomass is produced in an ecosystem, typically measured as net primary productivity (NPP). It varies significantly across biomes due to differences in climate, soil fertility, and available sunlight. For example, tropical rainforests have high productivity due to abundant sunlight and rainfall, while deserts have low productivity due to limited water availability.

31. What is the role of decomposers in different biomes, and how does their activity vary?

Decomposers play a crucial role in nutrient cycling within biomes by breaking down dead organic matter. Their activity varies across biomes due to differences in temperature, moisture, and substrate quality. For example, decomposition occurs rapidly in warm, moist tropical forests but is much slower in cold, dry tundra environments. This variation affects nutrient availability and soil formation in different biomes.

32. What is the concept of biome edges, and why are they important for biodiversity?

Biome edges, or ecotones, are transition zones between two different biomes. These areas are important for biodiversity because they often support species from both adjacent biomes as well as unique edge-adapted species. Edge habitats can provide refuge for species during climate changes and serve as important corridors for species movement, making them crucial for conservation efforts.

33. How do biomes influence the evolution of species?

Biomes provide distinct environmental pressures that drive the evolution of species through natural selection. The unique conditions of each biome, such as temperature extremes, water availability, and interspecies interactions, lead to specific adaptations. For example, cacti have evolved water-storage capabilities in desert biomes, while mammals in tundra biomes have developed thick fur coats.

34. What is the relationship between biomes and global nutrient cycles?

Biomes play a crucial role in global nutrient cycles, particularly the carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus cycles. Different biomes store and cycle nutrients at varying rates due to their unique plant and soil characteristics. For instance, tropical rainforests are major players in the carbon cycle due to their high biomass, while wetlands are important in the nitrogen cycle due to their anaerobic soils.

35. What is the concept of biome restoration, and why is it important?

Biome restoration involves efforts to return degraded ecosystems to their original state or a close approximation. It's important because it helps recover lost biodiversity, restore ecosystem services, and mitigate climate change. Restoration can involve reintroducing native species, removing invasive ones, and recreating natural processes like fire regimes. Successful restoration requires understanding the complex interactions within biomes.

36. How do biomes influence global energy balance?

Biomes influence global energy balance through their effects on albedo, evapotranspiration, and greenhouse gas absorption. For example, snow-covered tundra reflects more sunlight than dark forests, affecting regional and global temperatures. Forests also absorb significant amounts of CO2, influencing the greenhouse effect. Understanding these relationships is crucial for climate modeling and predicting future climate scenarios.

37. What is the concept of biome connectivity, and why is it important for conservation?

Biome connectivity refers to the degree to which different areas within a biome or between biomes are connected, allowing for the movement of species and the flow of energy and materials. It's important for conservation because connected habitats support greater biodiversity, allow for genetic exchange between populations, and increase ecosystem resilience. Conservation efforts often focus on maintaining or restoring connectivity to protect species and ecosystem functions.

38. How do biomes influence the distribution and behavior of migratory species?

Biomes play a crucial role in the distribution and behavior of migratory species by providing essential habitats for breeding, feeding, and resting along migration routes. The seasonal changes in different biomes often trigger migration patterns. For example, many bird species breed in the productive tundra during summer and migrate to warmer biomes in winter. Understanding these relationships is vital for conservation of migratory species and their habitats.

39. How do biomes influence the distribution and diversity of soil microorganisms?

Biomes shape the distribution and diversity of soil microorganisms through their unique combinations of climate, vegetation, and soil characteristics. For example, the high acidity and low nutrients in boreal forest soils select for specific microbial communities adapted to these conditions. In contrast, tropical rainforest soils support highly diverse microbial communities due to high temperatures, moisture, and organic matter input. These microbial communities, in turn, play crucial roles in nutrient cycling and plant health within their respective biomes.

40. What is the concept of biome stability, and how does it relate to climate change?

Biome stability refers to the ability of a biome to maintain its characteristic structure and function over time, despite minor fluctuations in environmental conditions. It's closely related to climate change because as global temperatures and precipitation patterns shift, some biomes may become unstable and transition to different states. Understanding biome stability is crucial for predicting and managing ecosystem responses to climate change.

41. What is the relationship between biomes and the Earth's geologic history?

Biomes are intimately linked to Earth's geologic history. The distribution and characteristics of biomes have been shaped by long-term processes such as plate tectonics, mountain building, and glacial cycles. For example, the uplift of the Andes Mountains created new high-altitude biomes and influenced the development of the Amazon rainforest. Understanding this relationship helps explain current biome distributions and predict future changes.

42. How do biomes influence the global distribution of animal body sizes?

Biomes significantly influence the global distribution of animal body sizes through their effects on resource availability, temperature, and habitat structure. For instance, large mammals are more common in open biomes like savannas, while smaller animals dominate in dense forests. Cold biomes often support larger animals due to Bergmann's rule, which states that within a species, populations in colder climates tend to be larger to conserve heat. Understanding these patterns is crucial for ecology and conservation biology.

43. What is the concept of biome-level adaptation, and how does it differ from species-level adaptation?

Biome-level adaptation refers to the collective adaptations of multiple species that characterize a particular biome. Unlike species-level adaptation, which focuses on individual species, biome-level adaptation considers how entire communities of organisms have evolved to function together in specific environmental conditions. For example, the prevalence of drought-resistant plants with small, waxy leaves is a biome-level adaptation in desert ecosystems. Understanding this concept is crucial for ecosystem management and predicting biome responses to environmental changes.

44. How do biomes influence global patterns of species richness?

Biomes significantly influence global patterns of species richness through their unique combinations of climate, productivity, and habitat complexity. Generally, tropical biomes support higher species richness due to stable, favorable climates and high productivity. In contrast, extreme biomes like deserts and tundra have lower species richness. Understanding these patterns is crucial for biodiversity conservation and predicting how climate change might affect global species distributions.

45. What is the relationship between biomes and the evolution of plant life history strategies?

Biomes play a crucial role in shaping plant life history strategies through their unique environmental pressures. For example, plants in fire-prone biomes like savannas often evolve fire-resistant bark or serotinous cones that open after fires. In contrast, plants in resource-poor environments like deserts often evolve slow growth and long lifespans. Understanding these relationships helps explain global patterns of plant diversity and adaptation.

46. What is the concept of biome resilience thresholds, and why are they important?

Biome resilience thresholds are tipping points beyond which a biome can no longer maintain its characteristic structure and function, potentially leading to a shift to an alternative state. These thresholds are important because they help predict how much disturbance or climate change a biome can withstand before undergoing significant changes. Understanding these th