What important role does fire play in a temperate grassland biome?

• A. It eliminates all animal life, reducing biodiversity.
• B. It increases soil salinity, making the environment unsuitable for most plants.
• C. It prevents the encroachment of woody plants and maintains grass dominance.
• D. It causes permanent loss of nutrients from the soil, leading to desertification.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the characteristics of a temperate grassland biome: These biomes are dominated by grasses and have few trees or shrubs. They experience periodic disturbances, such as fires, which play a critical ecological role.
2. Recognize the ecological role of fire: Fire is a natural disturbance that helps maintain the balance of ecosystems. In temperate grasslands, it prevents the overgrowth of woody plants, ensuring grasses remain dominant.
3. Analyze the impact of fire on biodiversity: Fire does not eliminate all animal life; many species have adapted to survive or thrive after fires. It also does not cause permanent loss of nutrients but can recycle nutrients back into the soil.
4. Evaluate the incorrect options: Fire does not increase soil salinity or lead to desertification. Instead, it helps maintain the grassland ecosystem by preventing the encroachment of trees and shrubs.
5. Conclude the correct role of fire: Fire is essential in temperate grasslands as it prevents the encroachment of woody plants, maintains grass dominance, and supports the overall health of the biome.