The Taiga Biome
By: Joseph Cooper
Vital Information and Climate about the Taiga Biome
The Taiga biome is located mostly in Russia, but also in the Northern part of America. It is the largest biome in the world and only has 50-100 days of no frost. In the Taiga biome, Things can be as hot as 70 degrees Farenheit, but it can also go down to be at least 20 degrees during the summer, but during the winter, the degrees can range from -54 to -1 farenheit. The rainfall amounts in the Taiga biome can range from 30-85 centimeters which consists of snow and rain.
Taiga Food Chain
Long-Eared Owl
The long-eared owl is a fair sized owl and is mostly a predator. They usually stay in Taiga, but some can migrate to Mexico. The long-eared owl is considered an endangered species.
Gray Wolf
The gray wolf can survive in just about anywhere and has skin to protect his from moisture and cool climates. Since they are carnivores, they feast on moose, caribou, and other deer-like creatures.
Lynx
The Lynx has paws that help it be quiet when catching its prey and it also has fur-covered pads on its feet to protect from the cold weather.
Weasel
The weasel is the smallest carnivore that sneaks up on rats and catches them in their own burrows. It changes fur color during the winter and hides its litter in the underground.
Grizzly Bear
The Grizzly Bear lacks carnivorous teeth, but he has molars to chop down plants. His long fur stops him from being cold and it's claws help him find plants in the snow.
Paper Birch
The Paper Birch can grow fairly tall and grows only in the northern part of the world.
Black Spruce Tree
The Black Spruce tree enjoys poorly drained soil so it fits perfectly in Taiga. The layered wings and rough bark help this plant survive in the Tagia climate.
Douglas-Fir
The Douglas-Fir trees are gigantic and their wood is very thick, stiff, and durable. Animals feed off this tree because usually their other food supply is still under the snow.
Balsam Fir
Balsam Fir is a climax growth tree and is a main food supply for Moose. The pine needles are small and the tree is used for cabin log and Christmas tree purposes.
Eastern Red Cedar
The Eastern Red Cedar tree provides fruit for animals and lives longer than most trees. They can grow in any soil and its bark is very durable which helps it adapt to Taiga climates.
Competition/Cooperation between organisms in Taiga
Red foxes and wolves fight for food and limited resources in the Taiga because there is only so much resources. Redwood and moss on the other hand get along very well. The Redwood tree gives the moss a place to live while the moss protects the tree. This is an example of mutualism.
The Lynx chases the rabbit
Wolves chase the elk
Bird eats the insect
Environment Issues
Natural wildfires burn down the forest everyday. Since trees would burn, more plants would regrow and allow new species to adapt because evergreen trees were the only tree. Humans are also a big threat to Taiga because they want to harvest its resources which interferes with the wild life.
Endangered Species
Interesting facts!
- The Taiga Biome has no seasons
- Many plants and animals don't live in the Taiga Biome due to its harsh climates
- Insects and Birds move to the Taiga during mating season