Biosphere and Biomes Overview

Study Notes

The biosphere encompasses all living organisms on Earth. It is the region where life thrives, encompassing air, water and land.
The biosphere is comprised of the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and lithosphere.
The atmosphere is a layer of gases that surrounds the Earth, vital for breathing, photosynthesis, and protecting us from harmful UV radiation.
The hydrosphere includes all Earth's water, serving as a habitat for aquatic organisms.
The lithosphere, or the Earth's crust, provides minerals essential for life.

Biomes are large regions with distinct climates that support specific plant and animal communities.
Biomes can be divided into aquatic (water) and terrestrial (land) biomes.
Aquatic biomes can be further classified as marine (saltwater) or freshwater.

South Africa has a diverse coastline influenced by warm and cold currents.
The eastern coast is warmed by the Agulhas Current.
The western coast receives the cold Benguela Current, rich in nutrients.
The south-western and southern coast experience a mixing of these water masses.
The ocean's tides, currents, temperature changes, oxygen, and salt content influence the marine life found along the coastline.

Sandy beaches are characterized by shifting sand, dunes, continuous wave and current action, and an intertidal zone where ocean meets land.
The intertidal zone experiences cyclical wet and dry periods.
This environment requires highly adapted organisms to survive.