Terrestrial Ecosystem

Terrestrial Ecosystem
A land-based population of organisms with biotic and
abiotic interactions in a particular region is called a
terrestrial ecosystem.
Terrestrial ecosystems are those that are mainly found
on land, though there are many different types of
ecosystems on land and in the oceans around the
world.
The kind of terrestrial ecosystem that exists in a given
area can be inferred from factors such as the range of
temperatures, average amount of precipitation, soil
type, and amount of light received.
Terrestrial Ecosystem
It consists of a group of living things that live on
continents and islands, along with their environment.
Both geographical variance and compositional
variations exist in terrestrial communities.
28% of Earth's surface, or 144,150,000 km2, is occupied
by the terrestrial environment. The earliest terrestrial
ecosystem formed about 425 million years ago.
The kind of terrestrial ecosystem that exists in a given
area can be inferred from factors such as the range of
temperatures, average amount of precipitation, soil
type, and amount of light received.
Types of Terrestrial Ecosystem
Terrestrial ecosystems can be divided into three main types.
Forest Ecosystem
A forest ecosystem refers to the dynamic interrelationship
of plants, animals, and microorganisms with their abiotic
environment existing as a functional unit.
Trees are the key components of the forest ecosystem.
Tress, shrubs, herbs, and climbers are present in
plenty. Soil, animals, insects, birds, and man are also
some of the important interacting units of a forest
ecosystem.
Approximately one-third of the Earth's surface is
covered in forests.
Forest Ecosystem
In this ecosystem, trees predominate among the plants.
The type of trees found there and the quantity of
precipitation received are used to categorize forest
ecosystems.
They contribute to maintaining a steady temperature
on Earth and are a good source of fruits and lumber.
The forest supports many wild animals and protects
biodiversity.
The soil is rich in organic matter and nutrients, which
support the growth of trees.
Desert Ecosystem
The ecosystems found in desert regions are known as
desert ecosystems. By nature, deserts are arid and windy.
Rainfall is a major abiotic determinant in a desert
ecosystem. While some are mostly made of rock, others
feature sand dunes.
Despite not having the same diversity as organisms
found in forests, desert species do have adaptations that
help them fit in with their environment.
Desert Ecosystem
Deserts receive less than 25 centimeters of rainfall on average per
year (about 10 inches).
A desert's terrestrial habitat is distinguished by stark day-and-night
temperature variations.
Despite having little organic content, the soils are rich in minerals.
The Sonoran Desert ecosystem is rich in trees, shrubs, and
succulents and cacti.
The wildlife of the desert includes birds, reptiles, and insects.
To minimize water loss, they have altered the structure of their leaves.
Desert Ecosystem
For example, CAM(Crassulacean acid metabolism) plants(plants
with photosynthesis adaptation to periodic water supply) that are
commonly seen in desert environments are cacti.
The wildlife of the desert includes birds, reptiles, and insects.
For instance, the leaves of the Creosote bush have a thick layer
covering them to reduce water loss through transpiration.
One of the most well-known desert ecosystems is the Sahara
desert, which occupies the whole upper half of Africa. It's the
biggest hot desert on the planet.
Grassland Ecosystem
The Grassland Ecosystem covers about 10% of Earth's surface.
It is found in regions that receive between 15 and 75 cm of rain
annually, which is more than what a true desert would receive but
not enough to sustain a forest.
Grasslands are types of ecosystems that are most prevalent in
temperate climates.
Steppes and prairies are two types of temperate grasslands.
Grassland Ecosystem
They have insufficient rainfall to sustain large woodlands, but
seasonal variations do occur.
These go by different names in different regions of the world, like
the Downs in Australia, the Veldt in South Africa, the steppes in
Europe and Asia, and pampas in South America.
The Indian high Himalayas are home to them largely. Most of India's
grasslands are called Savana and Steppes. Steppe formations
blanket vast stretches of sandy and salted soils.
A grassland environment is one in which the vegetation is
dominated by herbaceous (non-woody) plants, such as grasses.
Conclusion

Forests, with their lush green vegetables and high precipitation, are biodiversity

hotspots, serving as vital carbon sinks and oxygen producers. Deserts, on the other

hand, are arid landscapes with specialized adaptations for water conservation,

hosting a unique array of wildlife.

Grasslands, characterized by a mix of grasses, herbaceous plants, and occasional

trees, benefit from moderate rainfall, supporting a diverse range of herbivores and

often serving as valuable agricultural land. These ecosystems are distinct, shaped

by their environmental condition, and contribute significantly to the global

environment and biodiversity.

Thank you!