Taiga

* The Taiga, or, Boreal Forest Belt, is large belt of forest across the Northern Hemisphere characterized by cold, harsh climate, a low rate or precipitation, and short growing season. Precipitation in this region averages between 12 and 33 inches per year. Most precipitation occurs in the summer month. * The Taiga region is the world's largest forested region. It covers 17% of the Earth's surface and occupies 29% percent of the Earth's forest cover. * Southern portions of the Taiga belt are dominated by evergreen trees (sometimes called boreal forest.) Such trees grow close together for protection from the bitter cold and wind. * Forests in the Taiga Belt are prone to wildfires. Wildfires, however, allow sunlight to reach the forest floor resulting in the growth of new plants. * Biodiversity in the Taiga Belt is relatively low because of the harsh climate. Common animals include moose, black bears, great grey owls, spruce grouse, wolverines, and others.   Click on a biome to learn more