... can be classified according to numerous characteristics, with seasonality being the most widely used. District forest types also occur. There are 3 major types of forests, classed according to latitude: * Tropical * Temperate * Boreal forests (taiga) Tropical forests are characterised by the greatest diversity of species. They occur near the equator. One of the major characteristics is their distinct seasonality: winter is absent, and only 2 seasons are present (rainy and dry). Temperature is on average 20-25* C and varies little. Precipitation is evenly distributed throughout the year (~2000mm). Soil is nutrient poor and acidic. Canopy is multilayered and continuous. Temperate forests occur in eastern North America, north- eastern Asia and western and central Europe. Well-defined seasons with distinct weather characterise this forest biome. Moderate climate and a growing season of 140-200 days during 4-6 frost-free moths distinguish temperate forest. Temperature varies from -30 to 30* C. Precipitation is distributed evenly throughout ...

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