What Is a Savanna?
A savanna is a mixed woodland-grassland ecosystem characterized by a continuous cover of grasses with widely scattered trees. This biome is typically found in tropical and subtropical regions and is defined by distinct wet and dry seasons rather than changes in temperature.
Section 2: Key Characteristics
The defining features of a savanna include its open canopy, which allows sunlight to reach the ground and support a dense layer of grass. The climate is warm year-round but has a long dry season followed by a period of heavy rainfall. This environment is also shaped by periodic fires, which prevent dense forests from developing.
Section 3: A Practical Example
The most famous example is the African savanna, home to iconic wildlife such as elephants, giraffes, zebras, lions, and cheetahs. Plants like acacia and baobab trees are well-adapted to the savanna's conditions, with features like deep roots to access water during the dry season and thick bark to resist fires.
Section 4: Importance and Location
Savannas are vital ecosystems that support a high diversity of grazing animals and their predators. They act as a transition zone between forests and deserts and are found on nearly every continent, including large areas of Africa, Australia, South America, and India. They are also important for carbon storage and regulating local climates.