Lesson 4.2 - The Northern Boreal Forest Biome

Northern Alberta has the northern boreal forest.  However, all continental climates around the world that are at about the same latitude have very similar characteristics.  When close to an ocean, however, differences are evident in climates, vegetation, and animals.  Plants and animals have various needs, and the various plants and animals thrive in those areas where those needs are met.  In seasons where the needs of certain plants or animals cannot be met, the animals have various coping mechanisms.  Winter is very harsh on many animals.  Some animals cope by having thick fur.  Other animals cope by hibernating.  Some birds fly south. 

Read The Northern Boreal Forest Biome on pages 282 and 283 of your textbook. Then, answer the following questions.

 

Question 1. Answer Reading Check on page 282 of your textbook.

Question 2. Answer Check Your Understanding questions 2a and b from page 285 of your textbook.

 

Check your answers with those that follow.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Answers to Questions:

Question 1. Answer Reading Check on page 282 of your textbook.

"Diversity of living things" refers to the number of different living things in an area.  If there is a high diversity, there are many different types of organisms.

Question 2. Answer Check Your Understanding questions 2a and b from page 285 of your textbook.

2a.    Coniferous trees are adapted to poor soil and low temperatures.  The waxy needles slow the evaporation of water.  Because all needles are not lost at once, they conserve energy and nutrients.

2b.    The low-bush cranberry is important because it provides food for birds that spend the winter in the area.

 


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