2.4.3—Biome distribution determinants
- Syllabus
- First assessment 2026
- Objective
- 2.4.3
- Level
- HL
Use temperature level and seasonality first, then precipitation amount and timing, to infer a likely biome.
Warm and wet all year favours rainforest; persistent dryness favours desert; very cold temperatures and a short growing season favour tundra. Climate constrains producers, which then shape food webs.
A graph with 25°C throughout and 180 mm rain every month is more consistent with rainforest than savanna.
Seasonal water limitation; rainfall timing matters, not just annual total.
Do not name a biome from temperature alone; water availability and seasonality are essential.