Watch Biomes of the World in Action

2001
1 Season

Biomes of the World in Action is an educational program produced by Schlessinger Media that explores the diverse ecosystems that exist on our planet. In this series, viewers are taken on a fascinating journey to examine the various biomes that make up our world. The program's focus on environmental science provides insight into how these unique ecosystems function, how plants and animals have adapted to their specific environments, and the crucial role that each plays in the larger ecosystem.

Throughout the program, viewers are introduced to the following biomes: desert, grassland, temperate forest, tropical rainforest, tundra, and aquatic. Each episode takes an in-depth look at the characteristics of each biome, including topography, climate, flora, and fauna. The program also explores the challenges faced by each biome, ranging from climate change to invasive species.

Desert biomes are defined by their extreme temperatures, low levels of rainfall, and unique adaptations by plants and animals. This episode delves into how living organisms in the desert cope with extreme heat and lack of water, and the measures taken by humans to preserve these areas.

Grassland biomes, also known as prairies, savannas, and steppes, are characterized by grasses and thorny shrubs instead of trees. In this episode, viewers learn how these open landscapes support diverse communities of animals, including large herds of grazing mammals.

Temperate forest biomes are the most common biomes in North America and Europe. This episode explores the varying levels of precipitation within these forests and the diverse tree species that thrive in each. Viewers also learn about the different animals that rely on the forest for survival.

Tropical rainforests are some of the most diverse and complex ecosystems on Earth. The episode delves into the incredible array of plants and animals that call the rainforest home and how they have adapted to survive in this unique environment. The program highlights the impact of deforestation and other human disturbances on these fragile biomes.

The tundra is one of the harshest environments on the planet, with frigid temperatures and little rainfall. This episode explores how plants and animals have adapted to this environment, while also highlighting the impact of global warming on these fragile ecosystems.

Aquatic biomes, namely oceans, seas, lakes, and rivers, cover more than 70% of the Earth's surface. In this episode, viewers learn about the diverse species of fish and other marine life that live in these habitats, as well as the importance of preserving these ecosystems for the well-being of marine life and the planet as a whole.

Each episode is expertly crafted to provide a detailed and engaging look at the biology, ecology, and environmental issues surrounding each biome. Additionally, the show provides a glimpse into the lives of scientists and researchers who work tirelessly to study and understand these remarkable ecosystems.

Overall, Biomes of the World in Action is an informative and engaging program that provides valuable insights into the importance of preserving the diverse ecosystems that make up our planet. With its expertly crafted commentary and stunning footage, the show is both educational and captivating, making it an excellent resource for students, educators, and nature enthusiasts alike.

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Seasons

8. Tundra

May 2, 2001

The word tundra means land of no trees, which is a pretty good description of this cold, barren biome that makes up nearly 20 percent of the Earth's surface. From the arctic tundra found in the polar zones to the regions of alpine tundra located on the mountaintops of Europe and North America, students will get an up-close look at this fragile biome. Students explore the biodiversity that exists in these frozen expanses, while a fun, hands-on experiment demonstrates why so many tundra plants are dark in color. One of eight volumes in the Biomes of the World in Action Video Series. Grades 5-8.

7. Rainforest Biomes

May 2, 2001

Located throughout the Caribbean, Africa and South America, rainforests are as important to the rest of the world as they are to their inhabitants. In Rainforest Biomes, students will discover how the species of the rainforest have adapted to the temperature and humidity, and why the threat of its destruction will have a far-reaching impact on our planet. A visit with an ecologist at the Caribbean National Forest in Puerto Rico examines the work underway to restore the population of the endangered Puerto Rican parrot, while a fun, hands-on investigation demonstrates the vital role that rainforests play in recycling water. One of eight volumes in the Biomes of the World in Action Video Series. Grades 5-8.

6. Marine Ecosystems

May 2, 2001

In Marine Ecosystems, students will explore saltwater environments -- from shorelines to coral reefs -- and learn about the fish, plants, mammals and insects that depend on each other for survival in this aquatic biome. Examine concepts such as salinity and currents, and find out about the three major life zones found in ocean waters. A fun, hands-on experiment allows students to discover how brine shrimp have adapted to changes in salt concentration, while a visit with a marine biologist on the Chesapeake Bay examines the fascinating life cycle of the blue crab. One of eight volumes in the Biomes of the World in Action Video Series. Grades 5-8.

5. Grasslands

May 2, 2001

Grasslands are wide, sweeping expanses of land with many different grasses and very few trees. In Grasslands, students will examine the importance of these regions that produce much of the world's food. From the prairies of the Great Plains to the savannas of Africa, discover the characteristics that all grasslands have in common, beginning with the most obvious -- grass! A fun, hands-on experiment illustrates how students can measure the moisture content of two different soils, while an ecologist discusses how scientists are trying to restore grassland regions to their original state. One of eight volumes in the Biomes of the World in Action Video Series. Grades 5-8.

4. Freshwater Ecosystems

May 2, 2001

Freshwater ecosystems can be as small as a puddle or as large as a raging river. Ponds, lakes and streams occur on every continent, and they are home to a host of fish, algae and other water organisms. In Freshwater Ecosystems, students will explore these fascinating and diverse habitats, and learn about the biotic and abiotic factors that make up these ecosystems. A hands-on experiment shows students how to test the amount of dissolved oxygen in two different bodies of water, while a visit with a freshwater naturalist examines the importance of wetlands around the world. One of eight volumes in the Biomes of the World in Action Video Series. Grades 5-8.

3. Deserts

May 2, 2001

Deserts cover nearly one-fifth of the Earth's land surface. Even in these sand-filled expanses that dot the globe, much life can be found, from plants like cacti and sagebrush to well-adapted animals such as the Gila monster and the sidewinder. Discover how the process of desertification continually changes more land into deserts each and every year. A hands-on demonstration helps explain the different adaptations used by plants and animals to conserve water, while a visit with a herpetologist showcases the unusual adaptations of the deadly sidewinder. One of eight volumes in the Biomes of the World in Action Video Series. Grades 5-8.

2. Deciduous Forests

May 2, 2001

Forests are biomes in which trees are the main life-form, but what makes a forest deciduous? In this informative program, students will explore these colorful woodlands that change with the seasons. Students will learn about the many different types of plants and animals that inhabit both the temperate and tropical deciduous forests, while a hands-on investigation about leaves and their pigments is examined through a process called chromatography. One of eight volumes in the Biomes of the World in Action Video Series. Grades 5-8.

1. Coniferous Forests

May 2, 2001

The coniferous forest biome is made up of cone-bearing trees such as pines, firs and spruce, as well as a varied assortment of other organisms adapted to live in this unique region. Coniferous Forests will take students on a fun-filled trip from Asia to North America to explore these treasured woodlands, taking an up-close look at their shared characteristics while discovering the animal and plant life that call this biome home. An interview with an ecologist examines the lasting impact that natural forces such as wind and fire have had on these forests, while a dramatic experiment illustrates how pollution is emitted from forest fires. One of eight volumes in the Biomes of the World in Action Video Series. Grades 5-8.

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