Organisms+and+Adaptations+of+the+Taiga+(Per+8)

Several different plants and animal species reside in the Taiga biome. These organisms have developed useful adaptations to accomodate the cold and humid Taiga winters. The cold temperatures of the Taiga are the reason why many animals there are mammals; cold-blooded animals like amphibians and reptiles wouldn't be able to survive. Some of these organisms and their adaptations include:



Adaptations: claws at a perfect length to climb trees and shaggy fur to protect from cold Trophic Level: tertiary consumer
 * The American Black Bear:**

Adaptations: dark green color "soaks up" as much sun as possible to start photosynthesis and leaves have a waxy water-proof covering to protect from winds Trophic Level: producer
 * Siberian Spruce:**

**Wolverine:** Adaptations: large, flat feet enable them to claw and fur to protect them from cold Trophic Level: tertiary consumer

**Black Spruce:** Adaptations: layered twigs and rough bark protect it from cold weather Trophic Level: producer

**Northern Lynx:** Adaptations: its eyes allow it to see at night, and a fur padding on its paws allows it to hunt without detection Trophic Level: tertiary consumer

Adaptations: its leaves are adapted to retain water and protect it form cold Trophic Level: producer
 * White Spruce:**

**Long-Eared Owl:** Adaptations: talons that are large for hunting and the ability to turn its head almost all the way around helps it hear Trophic Level: secondary/tertiary consumer

**Gray Wolf:** Adaptations: wooly fur coats to protect it from cold and fleshy paws for easy snow traction Trophic Level: tertiary consumer

**Bobcat:** Adaptations: extremely sharp teeth to stab prey and claws that make it easy to climb Trophic Level: tertiary consumer/predator

**Snowshoe Rabbit:** Adaptations: webbed toes that act as snowshoes and fur at the bottom of their feet to provide traction Trophic Level: primary consumer/herbivore