Steppes and Prairies
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Explore the unique ecosystems of steppes and prairies, from the short bunchgrass-covered steppes with low rainfall to the rolling hills and sod-forming grasslands of the prairies in the U.S. Discover how the flora and fauna adapt to these environments, including the special characteristics of sod-forming grasses and the importance of humus in the prairie soil. Learn about the diverse organisms that thrive in these habitats and their survival strategies in challenging conditions.
Steppes and Prairies
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Presentation Transcript
Steppes · Grasslands of short bunchgrasses that get less than 50 cm of rain a year. · Low rainfall but more than a desert. · Sparse plant life. • High winds and high temperatures cause water to evaporate from the soil. Yearly temperatures range from -50C (200F) to 300C (850F).
Prairies · Make up most of grasslands in U.S. · Characterized by rolling hills, plains, and sod-forming grasses. • 50 to 75 cm of rain a year.
Prairie Organisms • Prairies *Prairie soil can hold water well. *Most grasses of prairies have roots that form a mat in the soil. *This mat of soil and roots is called sod.
Prairie Organisms · The grasses that form these are called sod-forming grasses, lawns are examples • As the roots die, they form a layer of organic matter called humus which helps hold moisture and provides additional nutrients and food for grasses and other organisms to grow.
Steppe Organisms • Steppe · Referred to as short-grass prairies. · Grasses are known as bunchgrasses which are short, fine-bladed grasses that grow in a clump. · These hold water in a small shoot area. • The fine blades help to prevent water from evaporating.
Animals · They adapt to these areas by hibernating, migrating, or burrowing underground. • Prairie dogs are an example.
