Schlerophyll Forests or Chaparral Biome (Ex: Chile)

Schlerophyll Forests or Chaparral Biome (Ex: Chile)

Key Features of the Schlerophyll Forest (Chaparral) BiomeThis 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) BiomeIn 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) BiomeIn 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 ForestsSclerophyll 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 ForestA 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 SoilsMediterranean 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 AnimalsBlacktailed Jackrabbit

Schlerophyll AnimalsAardwolf

Schlerophyll AnimalsWild Goat

Schlerophyll AnimalsSan Joachin Kit Fox

Schlerophyll AnimalsWild Boar

Sclerophyll PlantsOlive Tree

Sclerophyll PlantsCork Oak

Sclerophyll PlantsLebanon Cedar

Sclerophyll PlantsTorrey Pine

Sclerophyll PlantsWhite Oak

Human Impact on Schlerophyll Forest BiomesBecause 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 BiomesSince 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 BiomesWhen Chaparral is deforested, it becomes subject to erosion in the rainy winters which can wreck havoc.

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