Ecoregions

Overview of ecoregions

Ecoregions are areas of the earth's surface that contain geographically distinct assemblages of natural communities and species. These regions are defined by their ecological patterns, including climate, soil, and topography, which influence the types of flora and fauna that can thrive there.

Classification

Ecoregions are classified based on a variety of factors, including climate, geology, and biodiversity. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) has developed a widely used system that divides the world into 867 terrestrial ecoregions, which are grouped into 14 biomes.

Terrestrial Ecoregions

Terrestrial ecoregions are land-based regions that are characterized by distinct ecological features. These include:

• Tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests
• Tropical and subtropical dry broadleaf forests
• Tropical and subtropical coniferous forests
• Temperate broadleaf and mixed forests
• Temperate coniferous forests
• Boreal forests/taiga
• Tundra
• Mediterranean forests, woodlands, and scrub
• Deserts and xeric shrublands
• Mangroves

Aquatic Ecoregions

Aquatic ecoregions are defined for both freshwater and marine environments. These include:

• Freshwater ecoregions
• Marine ecoregions

Importance of Ecoregions

Ecoregions are important for conservation efforts because they provide a framework for identifying areas of high biodiversity and ecological significance. By understanding the unique characteristics of each ecoregion, conservationists can prioritize areas for protection and develop strategies to preserve the natural habitats and species that reside within them.

Threats to Ecoregions

Ecoregions face numerous threats, including deforestation, climate change, pollution, and urbanization. These threats can lead to habitat loss, species extinction, and the degradation of ecosystem services.

Conservation Efforts

Conservation efforts aimed at protecting ecoregions include the establishment of protected areas, sustainable land management practices, and restoration ecology projects. International organizations, such as the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the Convention on Biological Diversity, play a crucial role in promoting the conservation of ecoregions worldwide.

See also

• Biome
• Ecosystem
• Biodiversity hotspot
• Habitat conservation

External links

• WWF Biomes
• International Union for Conservation of Nature