Geological Features of Geographical Biomes and Their

Environmental Impact

Yingying Ma

Beijing Haidian Kaiwen Academy, Beijing 100000, China

Keywords: Geological Features, Geographical Biomes, Biodiversity, Environmental Impact, Measures.

Abstract: Geographical biomes are fundamentally shaped by geological processes, which play a critical role in their

structure, biodiversity, and ecological dynamics. This study investigates the geological underpinnings of

various biomes, including tropical rainforests, temperate forests, grasslands, deserts, wetlands, mountains,

and plateaus. By examining bedrock types, soil formation, and hydrogeological features, the study

demonstrates how these geological factors impact biodiversity and ecosystem functions. Environmental

problems including pollution, deforestation, soil degradation, and climate change are covered in detail, along

with conservation strategies meant to alleviate these problems. The paper highlights the interconnectedness

of geology and ecology, emphasizing the importance of integrated management strategies for the conservation

of biomes. The study seeks to offer valuable insights into sustainable management strategies that will help

maintain and bolster the resilience of these biomes amid continuous environmental changes. It emphasizes

the importance of adopting thorough, interdisciplinary methods for environmental conservation, encouraging

collaborative initiatives to safeguard the ecological integrity of these crucial natural habitats. The findings

emphasize the critical role of geology in shaping biomes and the need for integrated strategies that combine

geological and ecological perspectives for effective conservation, supporting the long-term sustainability and

health of diverse biomes.

1 INTRODUCTION

Geographical biomes, defined as large ecological

regions with distinct climates, flora, and fauna, are

fundamentally influenced by their underlying

geological characteristics. The study of geology

within these biomes reveals critical insights into their

formation, biodiversity, and ecological processes.

Understanding the geological basis of biomes is

essential for comprehending how they function and

respond to environmental changes. The Earth's

geological characteristics can be categorized based on

various factors, including rock type, geological age,

and tectonic structure. Key geological classifications

encompass sedimentary rocks, which make up

approximately 75% of the Earth's surface and are

created through the processes of compaction and

cementation of sediments. Moreover, igneous rocks,

which account for roughly 15% of the Earth's surface,

originate from the cooling and hardening of magma;

and metamorphic rocks, covering about 10% of the

https://orcid.org/0009-0002-0381-8556

surface and formed through the metamorphism of

existing rocks under high pressure and temperature.

Different geological features play distinct roles in

ecosystems and biodiversity. Sedimentary rocks

contribute to fertile soils, supporting high-

productivity ecosystems such as grasslands and

wetlands. Igneous rocks, with their unique mineral

compositions and structures, provide specific habitats

for various plants and animals, while volcanic ash

enriches soils with nutrients. Metamorphic rocks,

with their hardness and resistance to weathering, form

mountainous and plateau regions with unique

microclimates and biodiversity. Previous studies have

explored the geological features of specific biomes,

but there remains a need for a comprehensive study

that integrates these findings across various biomes.

This paper seeks to address this gap by thoroughly

exploring the geological processes that influence the

formation of tropical rainforests, temperate forests,

grasslands, deserts, wetlands, mountains, and

plateaus. It will explore how bedrock types, soil

Ma, Y.

Geological Features of Geographical Biomes and Their Environmental Impact.

DOI: 10.5220/0013074800004601

Paper published under CC license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0)

In Proceedings of the 1st International Conference on Innovations in Applied Mathematics, Physics and Astronomy (IAMPA 2024), pages 269-275

ISBN: 978-989-758-722-1

269

formation processes, and hydrogeological features

impact biodiversity and ecosystem dynamics.

The primary objectives of this research are to

identify and explain the essential geological

processes that influence the formation and unique

characteristics of different biomes, to examine how

these geological features affect biodiversity and

ecological functions within these biomes, discuss the

environmental challenges posed by geological and

anthropogenic factors, and propose conservation

measures that address these challenges and promote

sustainable management of biomes. By meeting these

objectives, this paper seeks to deepen our

comprehension of the vital influence of geology on

biomes and to underscore the significance of

integrated conservation strategies that incorporate

both geological and ecological aspects. This research

aims to uncover the essential role of geology in the

creation and sustainability of biomes by conducting a

comprehensive analysis of geological features across

different biomes. Key terms include geological

processes, biodiversity, ecological functions, and

environmental challenges. By fulfilling these

objectives, this study aims to enhance our

comprehension of geology's pivotal role in biomes

and highlight the necessity of conservation strategies

that integrate both geological and ecological

considerations. This will aid in developing more

effective and sustainable management and

conservation measures for biomes.

2 TROPICAL RAINFORESTS

2.1 Location and Climate

Tropical rainforests are located near the equator,

where they benefit from consistent warmth and

sunlight, high humidity, and substantial rainfall.

These conditions are ideal for supporting dense

vegetation and high biodiversity. The consistent

climate helps sustain a year-round growing season,

fostering a rich and diverse ecosystem. This stable

environment is vital for the survival of countless plant

and animal species, rendering tropical rainforests

among the most biodiverse regions on Earth.

2.2 Geological Basis

The geological basis of tropical rainforests includes

diverse bedrock types such as basalt, granite, and

sedimentary rocks. Basalt, common in areas with

volcanic activity, weathers to form fertile soils rich in

minerals like calcium and magnesium, supporting

diverse plant communities. Granite was found in many

tropical rainforest regions, weathers slowly, leading to

poor, sandy soils low in nutrients. Despite this, certain

specialized plants thrive in these conditions.

Sedimentary rocks, including limestone and sandstone,

also play a role in soil formation. Limestone weathers

to form alkaline soils that can support unique plant

species, while sandstone often leads to the

development of acidic, nutrient-poor soils. Soil

formation processes such as weathering, leaching, and

decomposition are crucial in tropical climates. Intense

weathering due to high temperatures and heavy rainfall

breaks down bedrock into soil particles, while heavy

rainfall causes leaching, carrying away soluble

nutrients like potassium, calcium, and magnesium,

resulting in nutrient-poor soils typical of tropical

rainforests. Rapid decomposition of organic matter by

microorganisms in warm, moist conditions releases

nutrients back into the soil, supporting dense

vegetation despite poor soil fertility.

2.3 Impact of Geological Features on

Biodiversity

Geological features significantly impact biodiversity

within tropical rainforests. Nutrient-rich areas with

volcanic bedrock provide fertile soils that support

diverse and dense vegetation. These areas foster rapid

plant growth and sustain a wide range of animal

species. In contrast, nutrient-poor areas with soils

derived from granite or sandstone support fewer plant

species. These areas tend to have specialized plant

communities adapted to poor soils. Topography and

hydrological features also influence vegetation

distribution. Lowlands with flat or gently rolling

terrains and well-drained soils support diverse plant

communities, with floodplains being particularly rich

in nutrients due to regular deposition of silt from

rivers. Highlands with steep slopes and varied

microclimates create unique habitats for plants and

animals. These montane regions often have higher

species endemism due to isolation and specialized

ecological niches. Rivers and streams are crucial for

nutrient distribution, creating diverse habitats and

supporting higher biodiversity due to regular nutrient

inputs from flooding.

2.4 Environmental Challenges and

Conservation Measures

Tropical rainforests are confronted with major

environmental threats including deforestation, soil

degradation, pollution, and climate change. Extensive

deforestation for agriculture, logging, and

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infrastructure development results in habitat

destruction, decreased biodiversity, and disruption of

ecological processes. Conservation efforts involve

creating protected areas, encouraging sustainable

land-use practices, and backing reforestation

initiatives. International efforts and local community

engagement are crucial for effective conservation.

The removal of vegetation leads to soil erosion,

exposing soils to wind and water erosion, which

results in the loss of soil fertility, sedimentation of

rivers, and degradation of aquatic habitats (Sonter,

2017). Practices such as contour farming, terracing,

and maintaining vegetation cover help reduce soil

erosion. Reforestation and the use of cover crops are

also effective in stabilizing soils and restoring

ecosystems. This study highlights the

interconnectedness of geology and ecology,

emphasizing the importance of integrated

management strategies for the conservation of

biomes. By understanding the interactions between

geological processes and ecological outcomes, this

research provides insights into sustainable

management practices that ensure the preservation

and resilience of these biomes amidst environmental

changes. The study underscores the necessity for

comprehensive, interdisciplinary approaches to

environmental conservation, promoting collaborative

efforts to protect the ecological integrity of these vital

natural systems. The findings emphasize the critical

role of geology in shaping biomes and the need for

integrated strategies that combine geological and

ecological perspectives for effective conservation,

supporting the long-term sustainability and health of

diverse biomes.

3 GRASSLANDS AND MEADOWS

3.1 Location and Climate

Grasslands and meadows are found across various

continents, typically in regions with moderate to low

rainfall. Grasslands can be classified into temperate

grasslands and tropical grasslands (savannas).

Temperate grasslands are found in areas such as the

Great Plains of North America, the Pampas of South

America, and the Steppes of Eurasia. These areas

experience seasonal temperature variations and

moderate rainfall, ranging from 300 to 600 mm

annually (Sims, 1978). Tropical grasslands, also

known as savannas, are found in regions such as Africa

(e.g., the Serengeti), Australia, and parts of South

America. These areas experience warmer temperatures

year-round with distinct wet and dry seasons.

3.2 Geological Basis

The geological basis of grasslands and meadows

includes diverse bedrock and sediments, such as

limestone, shale, and sandstone. Limestone, common

in many grassland areas, weathers to produce

calcium-rich soils that support diverse plant

communities (Sala, 1988). Shale and sandstone are

prevalent in some grassland regions, leading to the

formation of soils with varying textures and drainage

properties. The soil types in these regions include

mollisols, vertisols, and alfisols. Mollisols,

predominant in temperate grasslands, are rich in

organic matter and nutrients, making them some of

the most fertile soils. They have a thick, dark topsoil

layer formed from the decomposition of grass roots.

Vertisols, found in tropical grasslands, are clay-rich

soils that swell when wet and crack when dry,

creating challenging conditions for plant root systems

but supporting specific adapted species. Alfisols

occur in areas with moderate to high rainfall, being

moderately leached but still retaining sufficient

fertility to support diverse vegetation.

3.3 Impact of Geological Features on

Biodiversity

Geological features significantly impact biodiversity in

grasslands and meadows. The physical characteristics

of soil, including texture and porosity, affect water

retention and root penetration. Well-structured soils in

grasslands support deep-rooted grasses that are

drought-resistant and efficient in nutrient uptake (Sala,

1988). Grasslands generally possess extensive root

systems that stabilize the soil, prevent erosion, and

improve soil fertility by depositing organic matter.

These root systems also support a diverse array of

microorganisms crucial for nutrient cycling (Jackson,

1996). Water availability is another critical factor, with

surface water from lakes, rivers, and seasonal streams

serving as critical water sources that shape the

distribution of plant and animal species (Belsky, 1994).

Additionally, the availability of groundwater,

determined by the underlying geology, impacts plant

growth. Areas with accessible groundwater can

support lush meadows even in regions with low surface

water availability (Sala, 1988).

3.4 Environmental Challenges and

Conservation Measures

Grasslands and meadows face significant

environmental challenges, including overgrazing and

soil degradation. Overgrazing by livestock leads to

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vegetation loss, soil compaction, reduced soil

fertility, and increased erosion, diminishing the

habitat's ability to support wildlife and plant species.

Conservation measures to combat overgrazing

include sustainable grazing practices, rotational

grazing, and limiting livestock density. Restoring

degraded areas through reseeding and soil

conservation techniques helps recover grassland

health. Soil degradation in grasslands can result from

agricultural practices, deforestation, and overgrazing.

This leads to reduced soil organic matter, nutrient

depletion, and increased erosion, negatively

impacting plant productivity and biodiversity

(Pimentel, 2006). Implementing soil conservation

techniques like no-till farming, cover cropping, and

maintaining vegetation cover helps prevent soil

degradation. Policies promoting sustainable land use

and protecting natural grasslands are also crucial (Lal,

2001). This study emphasizes the importance of

integrated management strategies to conserve

grasslands and meadows, ensuring their resilience

and sustainability amidst environmental changes.

4 DESERTS AND SEMI-ARID

REGIONS

4.1 Location and Climate

Deserts and semi-arid regions account for roughly

one-third of the Earth's land surface. Prominent

deserts include the Sahara in North Africa, the

Arabian Desert in the Middle East, the Gobi Desert in

Mongolia and China, the Atacama Desert in South

America, and the Great Victoria Desert in Australia.

These regions receive less than 250 mm of annual

rainfall and experience extreme temperature

variations, ranging from freezing at night to over

50°C during the day. The harsh climatic conditions of

these regions are defined by low precipitation and

high evaporation rates, creating environments where

only specially adapted flora and fauna can thrive.

4.2 Geological Basis

The formation of deserts is influenced by several

geological and climatic mechanisms. Tectonic

activity plays a crucial role, where mountain ranges

create rain shadows that lead to arid conditions on the

leeward side. Subtropical high-pressure zones,

located at approximately 30° latitude, experience

descending dry air that inhibits precipitation,

contributing to the formation of deserts. Coastal

deserts develop where cold ocean currents cool the

air, diminishing its ability to retain moisture.

Continental interiors, located far from oceans, receive

little moisture from prevailing winds, resulting in arid

conditions. Sandstone, formed from compacted sand,

weathers into loose sand that forms dunes. These

dunes are shaped by wind and vary in type, including

crescentic, linear, and star dunes, depending on wind

patterns and sand supply.

4.3 Impact of Geological Features on

Biodiversity

Geological features significantly impact biodiversity

in deserts and semi-arid regions. Soil salinization is a

common issue, caused by high evaporation rates and

low precipitation, which leave salts in the soil. This

problem is exacerbated by irrigation practices.

Adaptations to this include halophytes, which have

developed mechanisms to tolerate high salt levels.

The scarcity of surface water resources limits plant

and animal life to water sources such as oases and

wadis. Adaptations in flora and fauna include

xerophytes, which have deep roots and water storage

tissues, and animals that exhibit nocturnal behaviour

to avoid daytime heat.

4.4 Environmental Challenges and

Conservation Measures

Desertification, the degradation of land due to

climatic variations and human activities, poses a

significant challenge, reducing agricultural

productivity and the sustainability of local

ecosystems. To counter desertification, conservation

efforts involve sustainable land management,

reforestation, soil conservation methods, and

international initiatives such as the United Nations

Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD).

Effective water resource management is vital in these

areas, addressing challenges like over-extraction,

pollution, and inefficient irrigation practices that

degrade water supplies. Effective measures include

implementing drip irrigation, rainwater harvesting,

desalination, and promoting sustainable water use

policies. This research emphasizes the importance of

integrated management strategies that consider both

geological and ecological factors to ensure the

resilience and sustainability of deserts and semi-arid

regions in the face of environmental changes.

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5 WETLANDS

5.1 Location and Climate

Wetlands exist on every continent except Antarctica

and are present in various climates from tropical to

boreal. Key types of wetlands include tropical

wetlands in the Amazon Basin, Congo Basin, and

Southeast Asia; temperate wetlands in North

America, Europe, and parts of Asia; and boreal

wetlands in Canada, Russia, and Scandinavia. These

regions typically have high water tables, with

seasonal or permanent water saturation, and diverse

vegetation adapted to wet conditions (Mitsch, 2007).

The distinctive hydrological conditions of wetlands,

marked by regular flooding or soil saturation, sustain

a diverse range of plant and animal species, making

them among the most productive ecosystems on

Earth.

5.2 Geological Basis

The geological basis of wetlands involves various

types of sediments and hydrogeological features.

Organic sediments, composed mainly of decomposed

plant material, are prevalent in peatlands and are rich

in organic matter, storing significant amounts of

carbon. Inorganic sediments, including clays, silts,

and sands deposited by rivers and streams, vary in

nutrient content and influence the physical structure

of wetlands. Wetlands are characterized by unique

hydrological conditions, including interactions

between surface water, groundwater, and soil

moisture. The water table is generally at or close to

the surface (Mitsch, 2007). These ecosystems receive

water from precipitation, surface runoff, groundwater

discharge, and tidal influences, which affect their

hydrological dynamics and ecosystem functions

(Winter, 1999).

5.3 Impact of Geological Features on

Biodiversity

Geological features significantly impact biodiversity

in wetlands through the formation of marshes and

peatlands and influencing water quality and plant

communities. Marshes form in areas with slow-

moving or stagnant water, where sediment deposition

and nutrient availability support diverse plant

communities, including grasses, reeds, and aquatic

plants (Mitsch, 2007). Peatlands develop in

waterlogged conditions where organic matter

accumulates faster than it decomposes, leading to

thick layers of peat that support unique flora like

sphagnum mosses and specialized fauna. Sediment

type and hydrological conditions influence nutrient

availability in wetlands. Nutrient-rich wetlands

support diverse and productive plant communities,

while nutrient-poor wetlands like bogs have

specialized, low-nutrient flora. Additionally, water

chemistry factors such as pH, salinity, and dissolved

oxygen levels shape plant and animal communities,

with freshwater wetlands hosting different species

compared to brackish or saline wetlands (Mitsch,

2007).

5.4 Environmental Challenges and

Conservation Measures

Wetland degradation is a significant environmental

challenge, resulting from drainage, land conversion

for agriculture and development, and altered

hydrology. This degradation leads to loss of

biodiversity, disruption of ecosystem services, and

increased carbon emissions. Conservation measures

to protect and restore wetlands involve implementing

sustainable land-use practices, re-establishing natural

hydrological regimes, and enforcing legal

protections. Restoration projects often focus on

replanting native vegetation and removing invasive

species (Mitsch, 2007). Pollution and eutrophication

are also major threats to wetlands. Pollution from

agricultural runoff, industrial discharges, and

urbanization introduces excess nutrients and

contaminants into wetlands, leading to

eutrophication, which results in algal blooms, oxygen

depletion, and loss of aquatic life (Smith, 1999).

Conservation measures to manage pollution include

reducing nutrient inputs through best management

practices, restoring buffer zones to filter runoff, and

using constructed wetlands to treat wastewater.

Policies and regulations are essential to control

pollution sources and protect wetland ecosystems

(Carpenter, 1998).

6 MOUNTAINS AND PLATEAUS

6.1 Location and Climate

Mountains and plateaus are found on every continent,

with notable examples including the Himalayas in

Asia, the Andes in South America, the Rockies in

North America, the Alps in Europe, the Tibetan

Plateau in Asia, and the Ethiopian Highlands in

Africa. These regions experience diverse climates,

ranging from tropical conditions at lower elevations

to polar conditions at high altitudes. Mountains

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typically have cooler temperatures and more

precipitation than surrounding lowlands, with

significant climatic variation over short distances due

to changes in elevation. This climatic diversity

contributes to the unique ecosystems and biodiversity

found in mountainous areas.

6.2 Geological Basis

Mountains are primarily formed through tectonic

processes such as orogenesis, which involves the

collision of continental plates leading to folding,

faulting, and uplift of the Earth's crust (Dewey, 1970).

Volcanic activity is essential in the formation of

certain mountains, like the Cascades and Andes,

where magma from beneath the Earth's crust erupts

and accumulates over time. Erosion and isostasy are

additional processes that shape mountains, where

erosion wears down mountains and isostatic rebound

causes the Earth's crust to rise as weight is removed

(Molnar, 1990). The rock types found in mountainous

regions include igneous rocks, formed from cooled

magma or lava and common in volcanic mountain

ranges, with examples such as basalt and granite;

metamorphic rocks, formed under high pressure and

temperature conditions, typically found in the core of

mountain ranges, with examples including schist and

gneiss; and sedimentary rocks, formed from the

accumulation of sediments and often found in folded

mountain belts, with examples including limestone

and sandstone.

6.3 Impact of Geological Features on

Biodiversity

Mountains create diverse habitats over short vertical

distances due to altitudinal and climatic gradients,

leading to high biodiversity and endemism.

Biodiversity hotspots are often found in mountainous

regions, where different species are adapted to

varying conditions along altitudinal gradients. The

temperature and precipitation variations with altitude

create distinct climatic zones that support different

vegetation types and ecosystems (Körner, 2007). Soil

formation in mountainous areas varies with altitude,

parent material, and climate, resulting in thin, rocky

soils at higher altitudes and deeper, more fertile soils

on lower slopes. These varying climates and soils

create distinct vegetation zones, from forests and

grasslands at lower elevations to alpine tundra and ice

at higher altitudes, each supporting unique plant and

animal communities.

6.4 Environmental Challenges and

Conservation Measures

Mountains and plateaus face significant

environmental challenges, including landslides and

erosion. Steep slopes and heavy rainfall can lead to

landslides and erosion, threatening ecosystems and

human settlements. Erosion removes fertile soil,

affecting vegetation and biodiversity. Conservation

measures to address these issues include

reforestation, terracing, and building retaining walls

to stabilize slopes. Implementing monitoring and

early warning systems can reduce the impact of

landslides. Additionally, climate change significantly

threatens mountain ecosystems by altering

temperature and precipitation patterns, causing

glacier retreat, changing water availability, and

shifting vegetation zones. These changes can disrupt

ecosystems and species distributions. To address the

impacts of climate change, conservation efforts

should focus on protecting and restoring natural

habitats, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and

employing adaptive management strategies to

enhance the resilience and sustainability of mountain

ecosystems (Beniston, 2003).

7 CONCLUSIONS

Geology is fundamental in determining the structure,

biodiversity, and ecological dynamics of

geographical biomes. The study of tropical

rainforests, temperate forests, grasslands, deserts,

wetlands, mountains, and plateaus demonstrates the

diverse ways in which geological processes such as

weathering, erosion, and tectonic activity influence

these ecosystems. Soil types, rock formations, and

hydrogeological features are shown to be critical

determinants of plant and animal communities. The

environmental challenges faced by these biomes,

including deforestation, soil degradation, pollution,

and climate change, underscore the need for effective

conservation measures. Strategies such as sustainable

land management, reforestation, pollution control,

and adaptive management in response to climate

change are essential for preserving these ecosystems.

Future research should aim to develop comprehensive

management strategies that incorporate both

geological and ecological elements of biomes. This

holistic perspective will be vital for enhancing the

resilience of biomes to environmental changes and for

ensuring the long-term sustainability of these critical

ecosystems. By underscoring the interdependence of

geological and ecological factors, this study

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emphasizes the necessity of a multidisciplinary

approach to biome conservation, promoting a deeper

comprehension of the natural world and our

responsibility in its stewardship. This thorough

understanding of the interaction between geological

processes and ecological outcomes will support the

development of more effective conservation

strategies, ultimately enhancing the preservation and

resilience of our planet's diverse biomes.

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