1.TEMPERATE FORESTS-Temperate forests experience four distinct climate seasons–winter, spring, fall, and summer. They consist of oaks, maples, and other deciduous trees as well as seasonal plants.
2.TROPICAL FORESTS-Characterized by nearly daily rain showers, high humidity, and temperatures averaging between 90 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit, tropical forests are found in the equatorial regions of Africa, Australia, southern Asia, and South America.
3.BOREAL FORESTS-Found in the northernmost regions of Europe, Asia, and North America, boreal forests consist mostly of white spruces, jackpines, white birches, and trembling aspens.
4.LAKES AND PONDS-A diverse community of animals lives in the shallow waters near the shores of large ponds and lakes where more sunlight can be absorbed and retained. Called the littoral zone, these shallow areas harbor creatures ranging from microscopic diatoms.
5.STREAMS AND RIVERS-Stream and river animals like river otters or eels have long, slender bodies that help them swim in fast-moving water. Crabs have evolved strong pincers they use to hold onto plant leaves when water is flowing forcefully.
6.OCEANS AND SEAS-Nearly three-quarters of the Earth’s surface is covered by oceans and seas. The Pacific Ocean is the largest ocean on the planet and provides about 30 percent of the oxygen animals and humans breathe. Seas are much smaller than the Atlantic.
7.WETLANDS-Areas where various amounts of water cover the ground all year, or at least during the growing season, are called wetlands. The percentage of soil saturation is the primary factor that determines what kind of animals and plants live in wetlands.
8.CORAL REEFS-The most famous coral reef, the Great Barrier Reef of Australia, is an ancient natural environment existing in both shallow and deep ocean waters. Often referred to as the “rainforests of the oceans”, coral reefs are considered to be the planet’s most fertile ecosystem.