Deciduous forest during autumn leaf fall, Inkoo, Finland
© Anne Raunio
Description
At cool temperate latitudes in the Northern hemisphere, fertile soils and high precipitation support forests dominated by broadleaf deciduous trees, although evergreen needleleaf trees may account for up to one-third of the canopy. Cold snow-prone winters punctuate a limited but highly productive growing season. Fungi and bacteria play vital roles in decomposition of the seasonal leaf fall on the forest floor, with insects and browsing herbivores important in carbon and nutrient cycling. Herbivores such as deer and hares are prey to feline, canine and avian predators. Winter dormancy, hibernation and migration are key strategies enabling survival of plants and animals.
| Source | Coverage |
|---|---|
| 77.88% | |
| 7.97% | |
| 5.2% | |
| 4.26% | |
| 3.99% |