Upto 60% Off on UPSC Online Courses

Avail Now

Terrestrial Ecosystems: Types, Environmental Factors & Ecological Significance

Terrestrial Ecosystems: Types, Environmental Factors & Ecological Significance

Terrestrial Ecosystems: Land-Based Ecological Communities #

 A terrestrial ecosystem is a distinct ecological community of organisms, both living and nonliving, that inhabit and interact within a land-based environment. These ecosystems encompass a vast range of terrestrial habitats, from lush forests and expansive grasslands to arid deserts and frozen tundras. 

Terrestrial Ecosystems: Types on Earth #

These ecosystems are predominantly found on land

Following diagram depicts the different types of terrestrial ecosystems.

Environmental Factors That Shape Terrestrial Ecosystems Around the Globe

  • They are found in a particular place are dependent on factors like:
  • Topography
  • Altitudinal and latitudinal variations
  • Quality of soil 
  • Amount of light
  • Amount of precipitation 
  • Temperature range etc.
  • Topography: It is the physical features of the land’s surface which has a significant impact on terrestrial ecosystems.
    • Altitude: Higher altitudes are associated with cooler temperatures. They lead to the formation of alpine ecosystems.
    • Slope: The steepness of slopes can affect water drainage, soil erosion, and the types of vegetation that can grow.
      • Aspect (Orientation): The direction a slope influences its exposure to sunlight and temperature. This can create microclimates and influence the types of plants and animals present.
      • Valleys: Valleys generally have more fertile soil, thus supporting lush vegetation compared to the surrounding hills or mountains.
      • Natural Barriers: Mountains, hills, and other topographic barriers can isolate ecosystems, leading to the development of unique flora and fauna in different regions.

  • Altitudinal and Latitudinal Variations: They have significant effects on terrestrial ecosystems.
    • Altitude: Increase in altitude leads to generally decrease in temperatures. This temperature gradient influences the types of ecosystems found at different elevations.
    • Latitude: Latitudinal variations primarily influence temperature and climate.
    • Near the equator, tropical ecosystems experience consistently warm temperatures and high rainfall, while closer to the poles, temperate and polar ecosystems  have colder temperatures.
  • Quality of Soil: Soil has a profound impact on ecosystem structure, function, and health. 
    • Soil serves as a reservoir for essential nutrients.
    • Soil provides physical support and anchorage for plants.
  • Amount of precipitation: Precipitation has a significant impact on terrestrial ecosystems. 
    • Precipitation influences various aspects of ecosystems, including plant growth, animal behavior, and overall ecosystem structure. 
  • Temperature range: Temperature is a critical abiotic factor that has a profound effect on the ecosystem’s structure, function, and the organisms that inhabit it.
    • Species locality: Different species have varying temperature tolerances, and the temperature range dictates which species can thrive in a particular area. 
    • For example: Cold-adapted species are found in polar regions, while heat-tolerant species inhabit tropical ecosystems.

#

Conclusion #

  • They are dynamic and diverse environments that cover the Earth’s surfaces. 

They play a vital role in supporting life on our planet and offer numerous ecosystem services, including food production, carbon sequestration, water purification, and recreational opportunities.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email

 Final Result – CIVIL SERVICES EXAMINATION, 2023.   Udaan-Prelims Wallah ( Static ) booklets 2024 released both in english and hindi : Download from Here!     Download UPSC Mains 2023 Question Papers PDF  Free Initiative links -1) Download Prahaar 3.0 for Mains Current Affairs PDF both in English and Hindi 2) Daily Main Answer Writing  , 3) Daily Current Affairs , Editorial Analysis and quiz ,  4) PDF Downloads  UPSC Prelims 2023 Trend Analysis cut-off and answer key

THE MOST
LEARNING PLATFORM

Learn From India's Best Faculty

      

 Final Result – CIVIL SERVICES EXAMINATION, 2023.   Udaan-Prelims Wallah ( Static ) booklets 2024 released both in english and hindi : Download from Here!     Download UPSC Mains 2023 Question Papers PDF  Free Initiative links -1) Download Prahaar 3.0 for Mains Current Affairs PDF both in English and Hindi 2) Daily Main Answer Writing  , 3) Daily Current Affairs , Editorial Analysis and quiz ,  4) PDF Downloads  UPSC Prelims 2023 Trend Analysis cut-off and answer key

Quick Revise Now !
AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD SOON
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध
Quick Revise Now !
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

<div class="new-fform">







    </div>

    Subscribe our Newsletter
    Sign up now for our exclusive newsletter and be the first to know about our latest Initiatives, Quality Content, and much more.
    *Promise! We won't spam you.
    Yes! I want to Subscribe.