These large-scale patterns form the foundation of biogeographic realms , the broadest units used to categorize the distribution of the world's ecosystems and organisms. Life on Earth does not distribute randomly.
Biogeographic Realms: Species Isolation and Divergence Across Life Zones
Below is an overview of these major regions and what sets them apart. Realm Key Characteristic Iconic Example Nearctic North America Bison and maple forests Palearctic Eurasia and North Africa Snow leopards and boreal forests Neotropical Central and South America Amazon rainforest diversity Afrotropical Sub-Saharan Africa Savannas and primates Indomalayan South and Southeast Asia Tigers and tropical forests Australasian Australia and New Guinea Marsupials and unique flora Oceanian Pacific islands Island endemism Antarctic Antarctica and sub-Antarctic islands Marine mammals and lichens The Neotropical and Afrotropical Realms The Neotropical realm is arguably the most biodiverse region on the planet.
This realm is defined by an unparalleled richness of life, including countless plant species, jaguars, harpy eagles, and an immense variety of insects and amphibians. Instead, it clusters in distinct regions where species share common evolutionary histories and face similar environmental pressures.
Biogeographic Realms: Species Isolation and Divergence Across Life Zones
It encompasses the vast Amazon basin, the intricate landscapes of Central America, and the unique ecosystems of the Caribbean. The ancient connection of South America to Antarctica and subsequently to North America via the Isthmus of Panama dramatically reshaped its biological composition through the Great American Interchange.
More About Biogeographic realms
Looking at Biogeographic realms from another angle can help expand the discussion and give readers a second clear paragraph under the same section.
More perspective on Biogeographic realms can make the topic easier to follow by connecting earlier points with a few simple takeaways.
