Boreal Forest
Biome Research Project
Weather
Temperature ranges
-65 to 30 degrees F in the winter [very cold]
20 to 70 degrees F in the summer [hot and humid]
Precipitation
Most precipitation falls in the form of rain, but some falls in the form of snow and dew
Landforms
Boreal forests have ground that is rocky and covered with undecided leaf litter and patches of permafrost.
Animals
Adaptations for survival:
In order to survive the harsh winters in the Boreal Forest, animals hibernate through the cold months or migrate to warmer climates. They also produce layer of insulating feathers or fur to protect them from the cold. Many animals change color in order to camouflage themselves from predators, such as the ermine. It's dark summer coat turns white in the winter so that it can hide from predators.
Plants
Adaptations for survival:
The dark green needles of evergreens absorb sunlight and promote photosynthesis quickly. The needles contain a chemical that repels animals so that they are not eaten. Evergreens do not drop their needles like a deciduous tree, so they don't use a lot of energy to replace them. Their narrow needles limit the loss of water from the tree through transpiration. There is very little sap in the needles so they won't freeze.
Limiting Factors
Many of same types of predators after the same prey. For example lynx and bobcat are tracking a limited number of hares, squirrels, and voles.
Abiotic:
Extreme cold temperatures. Only 50-100 days per year are warm enough not to have frost. Area is prone to wildfires.
Ecological Concerns
Global warming
Forest fires
Pollution