a large-scale global ecosystem, for example, a tropical rainforest

the spread (which may have a regular pattern) of, for example, a type of vegetation

the average weather conditions (such as rainfall and temperature) recorded over a 30-year period

distance from the Equator north or south. Lines of latitude run east-west on a map, e.g., the Tropic of Cancer

The distribution and characteristics of global biomes

Geography

Understanding small-scale ecosystems

Changes in small-scale ecosystems

The factors affecting biome distribution

Using GIS to visualise the distribution and characteristics of global biomes

This unit teaches pupils about ecosystems and biomes at different scales. Pupils learn about the factors influencing biome distribution and the physical systems and processes regulating them. Pupils will also learn about the impact of population growth and resource extraction on biomes.

Ecosystems, biomes and the biosphere

Global {{}} are large-scale ecosystems defined by their main vegetation type. 

Climate is the average {{}} conditions (such as rainfall and temperature) recorded over a 30-year period.

Which of these biomes is most likely to border the polar biome in the Northern Hemisphere?

Name this biome from its description: near perfect, humid growing conditions result in dense, evergreen forest.

In which biome are trees adapted to cold, dry winters by having needles instead of leaves?

humid equatorial climate, high annual rainfall total

wet and dry seasons, low temperature range

a lack of sunshine means very low winter temperatures

Match each type of biome to the correct climate characteristics.

Things that are added to a system are known as ...

Food webs help us understand the {{}} within a small-scale ecosystem.

rapid changes in weather patterns due to climate change

droughts of increasing frequency and severity

pesticides being used to reduce weeds, insects and fungi to protect crops

storms which can cause trees to be blown over

a reduced mesh size in nets, leading to young fish being caught

Which of these is a way in which agriculture can harm small-scale ecosystems?

Which of these terms means the variety of plants and animals found within a specific area?

Once an arable farm, College Farm becomes a quarry and cement works.

Chalk is dug out, leaving behind huge pits in a 'white lunar landscape'.

The deep pits flood with rainwater, creating lakes.

Grasses and flowering plants spread across the banks of the lakes.

Hebridean sheep are introduced to graze the grass on the steep banks.

College Lake today is a nature reserve, but it was first a farm and then a quarry. Using this knowledge, work out the order in which College Lake has changed over time.

The Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust (BBOWT) 

The Hebridean Sheep Society, Isle of Skye

College Lake is located in the south east of England. Using your knowledge of UK geography, which of these organisations is **most likely** to manage College Lake?

Starter Quiz

Things that are added to a system are known as ...