Download 22 Schlerophyll Forests Chapparal

Schlerophyll Forests or
Chaparral Biome (Ex: Chile)
Key Features of the Schlerophyll Forest (Chaparral) Biome
This type of biome develops under a Mediterranean climate. It is
distinguished by large areas of oak-shrub-grassland. This kind of
biome is also found in California, Southern South Africa, Chile and
West Australia.
Key Features of the Schlerophyll Forest (Chaparral) Biome
In the northern hemisphere, schlerophyll forests can be made up of cork
oak, live oak, white oak, olive and various pine species. These plants are
adapted to receive moisture during the cooler winter months and to
withstand hot, dry summers. They have long roots, thick bark, hard leathery
light-coloured leaves, and medium to low heights. These adaptations help to
conserve moisture. Trees in this biome naturally cover from 25-60 % of the
land with grasses and shrubs covering the remaining land.
Australian Schlerophyll Forest (Chaparral) Biome
In Australian Schlerophyll forests, eucalyptus and acacia trees are
common. There are both dry and wet Schlerophyll forests. Bushfires
in Australian Schlerophyll forests are common and help regenerate the
forests. Some plants are adapted for fire in that their seeds need heat
to open or their buds are stimulated by heat.
A Chapparal Food Web
Locations of Chaparral or Schlerophyll Forests
Sclerophyll forests with California-like climates are found around the
Mediterranean Sea, California, Chile, South Africa and Australia.
These regions are between 30 and 45 degrees latitude north and south
of the equator.
Climate Favouring a Schlerophyll Forest
A Mediterranean Climate is warm year round with a cooler period
during the winter months when rain occurs. The average rainfall of dry
summers and wetter winters ranges from 250 tp 900 mm.
Sclerophyll Soils
Mediterranean Climates often give rise to Terra Rossa (red earth) soils
which are high in oxidized iron compounds. Terra Rosa soils often have
good drainage and are reasonably good for agriculture, especially for
grapes.
Schlerophyll Animals
Blacktailed Jackrabbit
Schlerophyll Animals
Aardwolf
Schlerophyll Animals
Wild Goat
Schlerophyll Animals
San Joachin Kit Fox
Schlerophyll Animals
Wild Boar
Sclerophyll Plants
Olive Tree
Sclerophyll Plants
Cork Oak
Sclerophyll Plants
Lebanon Cedar
Sclerophyll Plants
Torrey Pine
Sclerophyll Plants
White Oak
Human Impact on Schlerophyll Forest Biomes
Because of its favourable climate, chaparral has attracted humans
settlements and resort development along coasts. Thus, many
chaparral biomes have been deforested and changed into cities (Los
Angeles).
Human Impact on Schlerophyll Forest Biomes
Since schlerophyll forests have dry periods, they are occasionally
prone to severe fires. Southern California is regularly experiencing
these fires which move quickly and burn with high intensity.
Human Impact on Schlerophyll Forest Biomes
When Chaparral is deforested, it becomes subject to erosion in the
rainy winters which can wreck havoc.
End of Presentation
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