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Unlock This CourseTemperate grasslands are some of the most important ecosystems on Earth. These vast areas of grass-covered land support millions of people through farming and provide homes for countless animals. Found in the middle latitudes of continents, they're characterised by hot summers, cold winters and just the right amount of rainfall to support grass but not forests.
Key Definitions:
Temperate grasslands are found on every continent except Antarctica. The largest areas include the Great Plains of North America, the steppes of Russia and Central Asia, the pampas of Argentina and the veld of South Africa. They typically occur between 30° and 60° latitude in continental interiors.
The climate of temperate grasslands is what makes them unique. It's not wet enough for forests but not dry enough to be deserts. This creates the perfect conditions for grasses to dominate the landscape.
Temperate grasslands experience a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can reach 30°C or higher, whilst winter temperatures often drop below freezing. This large temperature range is due to their location in the interior of continents, far from the moderating influence of oceans.
Hot and dry with temperatures reaching 20-30°C. This is the main growing season for grasses.
Cold with temperatures often below 0°C. Many plants become dormant during this period.
Mild transitional seasons with the most rainfall, supporting plant growth.
Rainfall in temperate grasslands typically ranges from 250-750mm per year. This is more than deserts receive but less than forests need. Most rain falls during spring and early summer, which coincides with the main growing season. The irregular rainfall patterns mean droughts are common, making these areas challenging for both plants and animals.
The Great Plains stretch from Canada to Texas, covering parts of 10 US states. They receive 300-600mm of rainfall annually, with most falling in spring and early summer. Summer temperatures can exceed 40°C, whilst winter temperatures can drop to -30°C. These extreme conditions have shaped both the ecosystem and human activities in the region.
Temperate grasslands have some of the world's most fertile soils. The combination of climate, vegetation and time has created deep, nutrient-rich soils that are perfect for agriculture.
Grassland soils are formed through a process that takes thousands of years. The deep root systems of grasses add organic matter to the soil when they die and decompose. The moderate rainfall means nutrients aren't washed away, whilst the seasonal freezing and thawing helps break down rock particles.
These are the classic grassland soils, also known as black earth. They're incredibly fertile due to their high organic matter content and can be over 2 metres deep. The dark colour comes from decomposed grass roots and is a sign of their fertility.
Grasses dominate temperate grasslands, but they're not the only plants found there. The vegetation has adapted to survive drought, fire and grazing animals.
Grasses are perfectly suited to grassland conditions. Their growing points are at ground level, protected from fire and grazing. They have extensive root systems that can extend several metres deep, allowing them to access water during dry periods. Many grasses also grow in clumps, which helps them compete for resources.
Grass roots can extend 2-3 metres deep, much deeper than the visible plant above ground.
Growing points at soil level allow grasses to regrow quickly after fires.
Grasses can become dormant during dry periods and quickly resume growth when rain returns.
Whilst grasses dominate, other plants also thrive in grasslands. Wildflowers bloom in spring and summer, adding colour to the landscape. Small shrubs and trees may grow in areas with more water, such as along streams or in depressions where water collects.
Temperate grasslands support a diverse range of animals, from tiny insects to large mammals. Many have adapted to life in open spaces with few places to hide.
Historically, vast herds of grazing animals roamed temperate grasslands. In North America, millions of bison once grazed the prairies. Today, most large wild herbivores have been replaced by domestic animals like cattle and sheep.
Many small animals live in grasslands, including prairie dogs, ground squirrels and various rodents. These animals often live in burrows for protection. Birds like meadowlarks and prairie chickens are specially adapted to grassland life, with their colouring helping them blend into the grass.
Many grassland animals live underground to escape predators and extreme weather. Prairie dogs create extensive tunnel systems that can house entire communities.
Humans have dramatically changed temperate grasslands, converting most of them to farmland. These areas now produce much of the world's grain and support billions of people.
The fertile soils and relatively flat terrain of grasslands make them ideal for farming. Most of the world's wheat, maize and other cereal crops are grown in former grassland areas. Livestock farming is also common, with cattle and sheep grazing on remaining grasslands.
Wheat, maize, barley and other cereals are the main crops grown in grassland regions.
Cattle, sheep and other animals graze on grasslands, providing meat and dairy products.
The deep, nutrient-rich soils make grasslands some of the most productive farmland on Earth.
The Pampas cover about 270,000 square kilometres in Argentina and are one of the world's most important agricultural regions. The area produces wheat, maize, soybeans and supports millions of cattle. The fertile soils and favourable climate make it possible to grow crops year-round in some areas. However, intensive farming has led to soil erosion and loss of native grassland species.
Temperate grasslands face numerous challenges, from climate change to habitat loss. Conservation efforts are working to protect remaining grasslands and restore damaged areas.
Climate change is affecting grasslands through changing rainfall patterns and increased temperatures. Droughts are becoming more frequent and severe, whilst extreme weather events can damage crops and natural vegetation. Soil erosion from intensive farming is also a major concern.
Many countries are working to protect their remaining grasslands. This includes creating nature reserves, restoring degraded areas and promoting sustainable farming practices. Some farmers are also returning to more traditional methods that work with natural grassland processes rather than against them.
Scientists and conservationists are working to restore native grasslands by replanting native species and reintroducing natural processes like controlled burning.