Question

Which biome is the richest in flora and fauna?
(a)Deciduous forests
(b)Chaparral
(c)Tropical rainforests
(d)Taiga

Answer 1

Hint: A biome can be rich in flora and fauna when the environmental conditions, such as temperature, are maintained at a constant rate. The constant environment ensures a greater diversity of species. Some biomes have temperature ranges lower or higher than physiological temperatures of many species hence not all flora and fauna can live there.

Complete answer: - Tropical rainforests are the richest biomes for flora and fauna due to their environment that supports a large diversity of species.
- Tropical rainforests are found in areas on and around the equator. Due to the location, the temperature and sunlight in these regions is constant, in the range of 20 °C to 34 °C. The constant parameters ensure the growth of flora and the presence of fauna is year-round, not just seasonal.
- The regions also face rainfall practically throughout the year, with even the lowest rainfall being considerably higher than non-tropical biomes like deserts. This provides ample water and moisture for species to grow.
- The biome is also characterized by distinct layers from the forest floor. The forest floor has decaying flora and microorganisms, followed by shrubs, trees, and an upper canopy of broad leaves and branches of tall trees.

Additional information: - Biomes are defined as large-scale environments that are distinguished by characteristic temperature ranges and amounts of rainfall (precipitation).
- The eight major terrestrial biomes on the planet are tropical rainforests, savannas, subtropical deserts, chaparral, temperate grasslands, temperate forests, boreal forests, and Arctic tundra.

So, the correct answer is ‘tropical rainforests’.

Note: - Tropical rainforests are known as nature’s pharmacy as the rich flora has a high potential for providing chemicals that may be refined into drugs for medical treatment.
- These forests are under threat from deforestation for using the land for agriculture.