Biomes are major types of communities and ecosystems with characteristic species and are located in large geographic areas. The tropical rain forest is hot and wet, with diverse life. Competition for light leads to vertical stratification. Nutrient cycling is rapid. Temperate deciduous forests require a growing season of at least 4 months, are vertically stratified, and have less diverse life than tropical rain forests.
Tree shapes maximize sun exposure.
Decomposers form soil from leaf litter. Temperate coniferous forests have poor soil and a colder climate. Periodic fires occur in these areas. The taiga is a very cold northern coniferous forest. Adaptations of conifers include needle shapes, year-round leaf retention, and conical tree shape.