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grassland

Definition

A grassland is a biome characterised by its dominant vegetation of grasses. Grasslands are found all over the world, in many different climates. They are typically found in areas with warm, temperate climates, but they can also be found in areas with cooler climates, such as the high plains of North America.

Grasslands are important for many reasons. They provide food for animals, help to prevent soil erosion, and are a source of water for many plants and animals. Grasslands are also home to many different plants, including wildflowers, shrubs, and trees.

There are many different types of grasslands. Some of the most common types include:

Temperate grasslands are found in areas with warm, temperate climates. They are typically dominated by grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass and Timothy grass.
Savannas are found in areas with warm, tropical climates. They are typically dominated by grasses, but they also have a variety of other plants, such as shrubs and trees.
Steppes are found in areas with cool, temperate climates. They are typically dominated by grasses, but they also have a variety of other plants, such as shrubs and trees.
Grasslands are an important part of the world's ecosystem. They provide food for animals, help to prevent soil erosion, and are used for many different purposes by humans.

How can the word be used?

The prairies are a type of grassland.

Different forms of the word

Noun: grassland.

Adjective: grassland.

Verb: to grassland.

Synonym: prairie, savanna, steppe.

Etymology

The word "grassland" comes from the Old English words "græs" and "land", which mean "green plant" and "land" respectively. The Old English words are thought to be derived from the Proto-Germanic words "grasa" and "landaz", which also mean "green plant" and "land" respectively.

Question

Why is grassland important?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

What is a grassland and what are its characteristics?

Answer:

A grassland is a type of ecosystem that is dominated by grasses. Grasslands are found all over the world, in a variety of climates.

Grasslands are characterised by:

Presence of grasses: Grasses are the dominant plants in grasslands. They have long, narrow leaves that are adapted to dry conditions.
Low tree cover: Grasslands typically have a low tree cover. This is because grasses compete with trees for sunlight and water.

Variety of animals: Grasslands are home to a variety of animals, including:

Grazing animals, such as cows, sheep, and horses.
Herbivores, such as zebras, gazelles, and antelope.
Predators, such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.

Seasonal changes: Grasslands experience seasonal changes in temperature and precipitation. This can lead to changes in the types of plants and animals that live in the grassland.

Grasslands play an important role in the environment. They help to:

Prevent soil erosion.
Provide food and shelter for animals.
Filter pollutants from the air and water.
Store carbon dioxide.

Grasslands are also important for human use. They are used for grazing, agriculture, and recreation.

Here are some additional points that could be included in the answer:

Grasslands are classified as terrestrial ecosystems, which means that they are found on land.
Grasslands are often found in areas with low rainfall, such as prairies, steppes, and savannas.
Grasslands are important for biodiversity, as they are home to a variety of plants and animals.
Grasslands are threatened by a number of factors, including:
Overgrazing.
Desertification.
Climate change.