BIOMES
The Appalachian/Atlantic region of Canada is comprised of two main biomes. Boreal forests cover much of Newfoundland and the Gaspe Peninsula in Quebec, while temperate deciduous forests cover most of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.
Temperate Deciduous Forests: This biome has four distinct seasons with a long, warm growing season. These forests are made up of four or five distinct layers and are noted for their beautiful fall colours. The first layer is the canopy layer, and contains tall maples, oaks, poplars, and birch trees. Shorter trees, like white pine and hemlock, make up the second layer. Next, shrubs and bushes, like sassafras and redbud, constitute the third layer. The final layer(s) are composed of berries, ferns, wildflowers, and mosses. Animal life is abundant in this unique biome and includes squirrels, rabbits, skunks, cougars, deer, wolves, bears, and amphibians.
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Boreal Forest: In this biome, there is a much shorter growing season due to cool summers and long winters. The trees that grow in this biome are mainly coniferous. In the mountainous regions of Quebec, there are multiple arctic-alpine species, while in the coastal mountains, there are mainly white spruce, balsam fir, and black spruce trees. Also, near the coast, forests are dwarfed due to the heavy winds caused by the ocean. Other plant life includes sedges, heath shrubs, and junipers. Animal life in this biome includes chipmunks, shrews, moose, hares, and multiple species of insects.
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