Answer: Land biomes are most commonly defined by their climate and physical characteristics which influence the dominant plant life and, subsequently, animal life in them. This corresponds to option d.
Step-by-step explanation:
The classification of land biomes is based on a combination of factors, including climate, physical characteristics, and the types of plant and animal life present. However, the primary defining factors are the climate and physical characteristics of the biome.
Here's a breakdown of why option d is the correct answer:
1) Climate: The climate of a biome refers to the long-term weather patterns, including temperature, precipitation, and seasonality. Different biomes have distinct climate characteristics that directly influence the types of plants and animals that can survive in those regions. For example, tropical rainforests have high temperatures and abundant rainfall, supporting a diverse range of plant and animal life adapted to these conditions.
2) Physical Characteristics: The physical characteristics of a biome encompass various factors such as topography, soil type, altitude, and available resources. These factors determine the specific conditions and resources available for plant growth, which, in turn, influence the types of animals that can thrive in the biome. For instance, the grasslands biome is characterized by flat terrain, fertile soil, and a moderate amount of rainfall, supporting grasses as the dominant plant life and grazing animals such as zebras and antelopes.
3) Influence on Dominant Plant Life: The climate and physical characteristics directly impact the dominant plant life in a biome. For example, in deserts, the arid climate and sandy soil limit water availability, leading to the prevalence of drought-resistant plants like cacti. Similarly, the presence of specific soil types, such as peat or marshy soil, influences the growth of unique plant communities in wetland biomes.
4) Influence on Dominant Animal Life: The dominant plant life in a biome provides food and habitat for the animal species that inhabit the area. Animals in a biome have evolved adaptations to survive in the specific environmental conditions and to utilize the available resources. For instance, in the taiga biome, coniferous trees are the dominant plant life and provide shelter and food for animals like moose and pine martens.
In summary, land biomes are most commonly defined by their climate and physical characteristics, which influence the dominant plant life and subsequently shape the animal life in those regions. These factors work together to create distinct and unique ecosystems found throughout the world.