T2.1 - Boreal and temperate high montane forests and woodlands

Boreal forest, Liesjärvi National Park, Tammela, Finland

© Seppo Tuominen

View on IUCN Global Ecosystem Typology

Description

In boreal and mountainous cold, seasonally snow-prone climates, acid soils support structurally simple forests made up of needle-leaf conifer trees, sometimes with broad-leaf deciduous trees. Large forest trees provide habitat for fungi, mosses and liverworts. Seasonal understorey growth sustains high densities of herbivores such as bear, deer, and a variety of insects, with predators such as lynx, wolves and raptors. Plants and animals survive cold winters through freeze-tolerant organs, hibernation or migratory movements.