Grassland
Grassland
Grassland (pronunciation: /ˈɡræsˌlænd/) is a region where the average annual rainfall is great enough to support grass, and in some areas a few trees. The predominant vegetation is grasses, and the largest expanses of natural grasslands are found in the Great Plains of North America, the Pampas of South America, the veld of South Africa, the steppe of Central Asia, and the savanna of Africa and Australia.
Etymology
The term "grassland" is derived from the Old English words "græs" and "land", which literally mean "land covered with grass".
Types of Grasslands
There are two main types of grasslands: tropical grasslands, also known as savannas, and temperate grasslands.
- Tropical grasslands or savannas have a hot, wet season and a cool, dry season. They are found near the equator and the largest expanses are in Africa and South America.
- Temperate grasslands have cold winters and hot, dry summers. They are found in regions farther from the equator, such as the North American prairies, the pampas of South America, and the steppes of Central Asia and Eastern Europe.
Flora and Fauna
Grasslands are home to a variety of flora and fauna. The dominant vegetation is grass, but other plants such as wildflowers and herbs can also be found. The fauna of grasslands includes a variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects. Some of the most iconic grassland animals include the lion, zebra, buffalo, and gazelle in Africa, and the bison in North America.
Importance of Grasslands
Grasslands play a crucial role in our ecosystem. They act as a natural carbon sink, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. They also provide habitat for a variety of wildlife and are a source of grazing for livestock. In addition, grasslands are important for the production of hay, silage, and grain crops.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Grassland
- Wikipedia's article - Grassland
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