9.1 The changing seasons

Seasons do not change in regions near the planet's equator. Organisms that live in these tropical areas have adapted to constant warm temperatures and steady amounts of rainfall throughout the year. Even the light part of the day remains approximately as long during the winter as it does in the summer. These conditions are beneficial for many living organisms, which is why tropical regions are home of the most diverse set of species on the planet.

In Northern Europe, the situation is quite different. The yearly conditions for living organisms vary between good and near impossible. The temperate regions of Northern Europe experience four distinct seasons.

Winter is the coldest and harshest season for living organisms. Summer, on the other hand, is the most beneficial time of year for many organisms. During the summer, there is enough sunlight for plants to photosynthesize, and the animals of the forest are at their most active.


Seasons: winter, spring, summer and autumn.