We explain what the coniferous forest is, its location and what its flora and fauna are like. Also, its climate and main characteristics.
What is coniferous forest?
Coniferous forests are ecosystems that are characterized by having a climate that ranges from temperate to cold the abundant rainfall, but, above all, the predominance of coniferous trees, with high heights (up to 100 meters). Among them are pine trees, with their enormous variety of species.
Furthermore, in this type of forest the presence of cypresses, cedars, spruces and firs is very common. And to this are added the ferns and bushes, which are also typical of this type of ecosystem. Now, coniferous trees They are those that have cone-shaped seeds. Furthermore, they do not have fruits, but pine nuts.
Besides, The leaves of these trees are evergreen and are characterized by being needle-shaped.. The qualities of these leaves allow them to last up to seven years, which is why the crown is renewed in stages, and not every year, as happens with many species. In addition, they are leaves resistant to low temperatures, typical of certain forests where it even snows every winter, in addition to rainfall.
The thing is that the needle shape of the leaves makes their surface area very small. This means that the snow hardly accumulates, and without breaking them. Added to this, It has a resin that prevents water loss. To this we must add another quality, typical of evergreen leaves, and that is that the cells found on the outside function as antifreeze, ideal for low temperatures.
Besides, The pyramidal shape of the trees is also key to their survival: The branches make the snow slide, instead of accumulating, preserving it better. Lastly, their cone shape allows them to store nutrients in the roots.
See also: Deciduous forest
Location of coniferous forests
Forests, unlike other biomes, are found practically everywhere in the world. There is no continent that does not have territories like this, although, obviously, of different surfaces.
coniferous forests are located in the northern hemisphere and it is the biome that occupies the largest percentage on planet Earth. Its low temperatures, which They can reach up to -30° C it is because they are located on rocky soils or near mountains.
Fauna and flora of coniferous forests
When talking about the flora that grows in coniferous forests, it must first be noted that there only Those plants or trees that survive in soils that contain an acidic PH can be developed.. This, as a consequence, becomes a condition for animals. The thing is that only those that can feed on these species will live in this type of habitat, among herbivores.
Within the flora, some of the most common trees found there are:
- Spruces. This type of tree, which has a pyramid shape, can measure up to 60 meters. Its leaves are flat and pointed. They are found in North America, Siberia, Asia Minor, Japan and China, among others.
- Fir trees. This type of tree is found in Europe and can measure up to 100 meters. Its leaves are flattened and grow in a spiral shape. Within the same tree you can find female and male flowers, making it a monoecious tree.
- Larches. Larches are only found in two South American countries: Chile and Argentina. They are characterized by having a long life, and can measure up to 50 meters.
- Pines. There are more than 100 species of pines and they are found in the most varied areas. They grow in North America, Central America, South America, Sumatra, Europe, and more. These trees can not only have a pyramid-shaped crown, but also a rounded one.
Some animals that are usually found in these types of forests are hares, beavers, rabbits, as well as black bears, elk and porcupines. Also, there are birds such as eagles or foxes, snakes and frogs. There are also no shortage of flies, mosquitoes or beetles.
In this way, There are four groups of animals that can be found there: birds, mammals, cold-blooded animals and insects.
Climate of coniferous forests
The climate of coniferous forests It is warm or cold. Unlike other ecosystems, in these the seasons are very different from each other. This means that, for several months, there is plenty of rain, snow or drought.
Winters are characterized by being cold. In some cases, they can reach up to – 40° C. In addition, rain and snow are abundant during this season. In summer, however, they have average temperatures of 10° C. And they are usually humid.
As for the Precipitation varies between 300 millimeters and 900 millimeters per year..
Characteristics of coniferous forests
Coniferous forests are characterized by being located in the North America, Europe and Asia, as well as in South America or Siberia.
Thus, this type of forests occupy a good part of Canada and Alaska, in North America, and an even greater proportion of Norway, Finland, Russia, Sweden, as well as Japan in Eurasia.
It is also a key ecosystem for economic life. For example, it is a essential source of raw materials for the wood industry. Also, its landscapes are very attractive, which is why many tourist activities revolve around these forests.
Due to the characteristics of these landscapes, fires are very common. In any case, the trees that live there, such as pines, have a bark that, due to its thickness, manages to protect the wood. On the other hand, since the stems are covered with needles, this also protects them.
Continue with: Mediterranean forest
References
- “Temperate forests” in Mexican Biodiversity.
- “Coniferous forests” in La Guía 2000.
- “Coniferous Forest” at NASA Earth Observatory.
