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Steppes and Prairies

Explore the unique ecosystems of steppes and prairies, from the short bunchgrass-covered steppes with low rainfall to the rolling hills and sod-forming grasslands of the prairies in the U.S. Discover how the flora and fauna adapt to these environments, including the special characteristics of sod-forming grasses and the importance of humus in the prairie soil. Learn about the diverse organisms that thrive in these habitats and their survival strategies in challenging conditions.

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Steppes and Prairies

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  1. Steppes and Prairies

  2. Steppes · Grasslands of short bunchgrasses that get less than 50 cm of rain a year. · Low rainfall but more than a desert. · Sparse plant life. • High winds and high temperatures cause water to evaporate from the soil. Yearly temperatures range from -50C (200F) to 300C (850F).

  3. Prairies ·  Make up most of grasslands in U.S. ·  Characterized by rolling hills, plains, and sod-forming grasses. • 50 to 75 cm of rain a year.

  4. Prairie Organisms • Prairies *Prairie soil can hold water well. *Most grasses of prairies have roots that form a mat in the soil. *This mat of soil and roots is called sod.

  5. Prairie Organisms ·  The grasses that form these are called sod-forming grasses, lawns are examples • As the roots die, they form a layer of organic matter called humus which helps hold moisture and provides additional nutrients and food for grasses and other organisms to grow.

  6. Steppe Organisms • Steppe ·    Referred to as short-grass prairies. ·    Grasses are known as bunchgrasses which are short, fine-bladed grasses that grow in a clump. ·    These hold water in a small shoot area. • The fine blades help to prevent water from evaporating.

  7. Animals ·  They adapt to these areas by hibernating, migrating, or burrowing underground. • Prairie dogs are an example.

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