Name the eight terrestrial biomes and provide a brief description of each.

Terrestrial biomes are major ecological zones characterized by distinct climate, vegetation, and organisms adapted to those specific conditions. Here are the eight terrestrial biomes:

1. Tundra: Located in the Arctic and Antarctic regions, the tundra is characterized by extremely cold temperatures, permafrost (permanently frozen soil), low precipitation, and a short growing season. Vegetation includes mosses, lichens, small shrubs, and grasses. Animals like caribou, polar bears, and Arctic foxes are adapted to survive in this harsh environment.
2. Taiga (Boreal Forest): Found south of the tundra, the taiga is dominated by coniferous trees like spruce, fir, and pine. It experiences long, cold winters and short, mild summers. Animals such as moose, bears, wolves, and lynxes inhabit this biome.
3. Temperate Deciduous Forest: This biome is characterized by four distinct seasons—spring, summer, autumn, and winter. It contains a variety of deciduous trees like oak, maple, and beech that shed their leaves in the fall. Animals such as deer, squirrels, birds, and black bears are commonly found here.
4. Temperate Grassland: Also known as prairies or steppes, temperate grasslands experience hot summers and cold winters. Dominated by grasses and herbaceous plants, this biome supports animals such as bison, prairie dogs, gazelles, and various bird species.
5. Chaparral: Typically found in coastal regions with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers, the chaparral biome is characterized by shrubby vegetation, including drought-resistant plants like shrubs and small trees. Animals such as coyotes, deer, and various reptiles inhabit this area.
6. Desert: Deserts are characterized by extremely low precipitation, high temperatures during the day, and significant temperature fluctuations between day and night. Vegetation is sparse and adapted to conserve water, such as cacti and succulents. Animals like camels, snakes, lizards, and certain rodents have adaptations to survive in this arid environment.
7. Tropical Rainforest: Located near the equator, tropical rainforests experience high temperatures and heavy rainfall throughout the year. They are incredibly biodiverse, with a dense canopy of tall trees, vines, and epiphytes. Numerous animal species, including monkeys, sloths, toucans, and a vast array of insects, thrive in this biome.
8. Savanna: Savannas are characterized by grasses and scattered trees with a distinct dry season and a wet season. Found in tropical and subtropical regions, these biomes support animals like lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and various bird species.

Each biome has unique characteristics that shape the flora, fauna, and overall ecosystem dynamics within it.