Chaparral Biome

By: Alicia & JR

What is the Chaparral Biome?

On each continent Various types of terrain including mountains

and plains. Sometimes described as the

“Mediterranean biome” Created when cool water from a ocean

merges with a landmass that is at a high temperature

Climate

Highly seasonal Mild, wet winters (temperatures as low as

30 oF) Warm, dry summers (temperatures as high

as 100 0F) Average temperature 64 0F Average rainfall 10 to 17 in. a year Fires and droughts very common

Vegetation

Plants must withstand periods of drought Common types: shrubs (sagebrush), small

trees ( olive trees & blue oaks) Plants have thick waxy leaves to prevent

water loss Adapted to live with, or resist, fire

Animals

Need to cope with hot, dry conditions Many are nocturnal ( pocket mouse or

Mediterranean gecko) Burrowing common behavior to avoid

daytime heat & fires

Net Primary Production

700-800g C/m2/yr

Location

Coastal range: latitude range is 530 to 650 North

Mountain range: latitude range is 320 to 600 North

Limiting Factor

Human Impact

Negative Building tourist attractions Building factories & industries

Result: endangering and threatening organisms