Question

On what basis are the biomes identified?

Answer 1

Biome is a biological term that is used to refer to a collection of living organisms (both plants and animals) that possess common characteristics in reference to their respective environment.

Complete Answer
Biomes are readily identified on the basis of environmental conditions prevailing in any particular geographical area. Let's study few of such factors in detail in order to better understand the concept:
1. Temperature: It is one of the prime factors that decides the kind of biome to be shared by the organisms of any area. Too high temperature can lead to formation of desert biome or too low temperature can lead to formation of Tundra biome.
2. Soil type: is another important factor that helps in identifying the kind of biome in any area. Soil decides the kind of vegetation that ultimately decides the animal population in any area.
3. Amount of light: being received in any area can also help in identifying type of biome. Densely populated area in terms of trees receives less amount of light that leads to growth of heterotrophic organisms.
4. Water: It is a life supporting factor for every biome. Water is very important for the existence of any life form. Any area having heavy supply of water can have an aquatic biome and those having poor supply of water can lead to formation of desert biome.

Note:
It is worthy to note that environmental factors are powerful enough to modify the method of living organisms in that area including both plants and animals. Therefore, any area in which several organisms share a common life approach irrespective of them being plants or animals due to environmental conditions are collectively referred to as a biome.