explain what biome comprises most of Antarctica and why the continent is described as being part of this biome.
The biome that comprises most of Antarctica is the polar desert biome. Antarctica is described as being part of this biome primarily because of its extremely cold and dry climate.
The polar desert biome is characterized by its extremely low temperatures and very little precipitation, making it similar to a desert. Antarctica is the coldest continent on Earth, with average annual temperatures ranging from -10°C (14°F) on the coast to -60°C (-76°F) at higher elevations. The continent receives very little precipitation, except for a small amount of snowfall.
Antarctica's classification as a polar desert biome is due to several factors. Firstly, the extreme cold creates a harsh environment where cold-adapted organisms are able to survive. Secondly, the lack of liquid water inhibits the growth of vegetation. The continent is covered mostly by ice and snow, with only around 2% of its land area free of ice. This scarcity of liquid water limits the growth of plants and limits the available habitats for organisms.
Additionally, Antarctica's ecosystem is dominated by species that are specially adapted to survive the extreme conditions. These include penguins, seals, whales, and various invertebrates. Most of these organisms rely on the ocean surrounding Antarctica for their food, as the land provides limited resources for sustenance.
In summary, Antarctica is described as being part of the polar desert biome because of its extremely low temperatures, limited precipitation, lack of liquid water, and adaptation of its organisms to survive in these challenging conditions.