Taiga+Block+1

**__Taiga__** 



A Taiga is a marshy pine forest. Because of it's Northern location and harsh climate, not a lot of plants and animals can live here. The Taiga is one of the most beautiful and clean forests yet, it is also a very fragile forest. Spruce and Fir trees are a big part of the Taiga ecosystem. If a lot of these trees were destroyed, it would take centuries for them to grow back.



The soil of the Taiga is similar to the soil of the Tundra. The soil contains a lot of needles from the coniferous trees. In the winter season, temperatures can drop below -76F. However, the summers can jump above 104F. The winter season does not bring alot of snow because of the harsh temperatures. Yet, the snow that does reach the ground stays there for several months.

 Evergreen Trees: Leaves remain green all winter so when summer comes the leaves can begin photosynthesis right away. Needle Leaf Trees: These trees are drought resistant and have well adapted to the cold. White Fir Trees: These trees have darker leaves to absorb more sunlight. This helps to accelerate photosynthesis. Coniferous Trees: Have needles instead of leaves. A waxy coating on the needles prevents moisture from evaporating. I also allows the tree to survive during the hard winter droughts. Balsam Fir: This plant is just a medium size Evergreen Tree. It can grow to be 40 to 80 ft tall. It has a wide base and a narrow top which helps the snow slide over the tree.