Distribution of Biomes

This page provides an overview of the global distribution of major biomes. It describes the characteristics and locations of various biomes, including:

1. Tundra: Located between the Arctic Circle and 60°-70° North, characterized by cold, windy, and dry conditions.
2. Deciduous and coniferous forests: Found around 50°-66° North, dominating colder environments.
3. Temperate grassland: Located 30°-40° north and south of the equator, with warm, dry summers.
4. Mediterranean: Hot, sunny, and dry climate.
5. Desert: Covers 5% of Earth's land.
6. Tropical rainforest: Found near the equator, covering a significant portion of Earth's land.
7. Tropical grassland: Located between 15°-30° north and south.
8. Polar: Found at the North and South poles.

Highlight: The distribution of biomes is largely determined by latitude, which affects climate patterns and, consequently, the types of ecosystems that can thrive in different regions.

Threats to Tropical Rainforests

This page focuses on the various threats facing tropical rainforests, with a particular emphasis on deforestation in Malaysia. The main threats discussed include:

1. Logging: 67% of logging occurs in tropical rainforests.
2. Road building: Opens up previously inaccessible areas.
3. Energy development: Including hydroelectric projects.
4. Mineral extraction: Such as tin mining, oil, and gas drilling.
5. Population increase: Leading to greater resource demand.
6. Commercial and subsistence farming: Clearing land for agriculture.

Example: In the 1980s, Malaysia was a major exporter of wood. Now, the country has shifted towards selective logging practices to mitigate the impacts of deforestation in Malaysia.

The page highlights how these activities contribute to the loss of rainforest ecosystems and their biodiversity.

Highlight: The shift from extensive logging to selective logging in Malaysia represents an attempt to balance economic needs with forest conservation.

Sustainable Management of Rainforests

This page discusses the concept of sustainable management of forest resources, particularly in tropical rainforests. The sustainable management cycle typically includes:

1. Pre-felling study (1 year)
2. Marking selected trees (3-6 months)
3. Felling (5-10 years)
4. Restoration planning (30-40 years)

Definition: Sustainable management ensures that resources are harnessed without causing long-term damage to the ecosystem.

The page outlines various strategies for sustainable management:

1. Education programs
2. Ecotourism initiatives
3. International agreements
4. Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification

Example: Ecotourism introduces people to the natural world while providing long-term income to local communities and governments.

Highlight: The FSC promotes sustainably managed forests by certifying products that meet strict environmental and social standards.

The Thar Desert

This page focuses on the Thar Desert, which stretches across northwest India into Pakistan. It is noted as one of the most densely populated deserts in the world. The page outlines various opportunities for development in the Thar Desert:

1. Mineral extraction: Gypsum, feldspar, phosphate, kaolin, limestone, and marble
2. Tourism
3. Energy production: Solar, wind, oil, and coal
4. Farming: Both subsistence and irrigated agriculture

The page also discusses challenges faced in the Thar Desert:

1. Extreme temperatures: Making work difficult and causing high evaporation rates
2. Water supply issues

Water sources in the Thar Desert include:

1. The Indira Gandhi Canal (constructed in 1958, 650km long)
2. Storage ponds (man-made Johads and natural Tobas)
3. Rivers
4. Aquifers

Highlight: The Thar Desert exemplifies how human ingenuity and adaptation can create opportunities in challenging environments, while also highlighting the ongoing struggles with water scarcity and extreme climate conditions.