Introduction to Temperate Deciduous Forests

LOCATION
- Eastern United States, Canada, Europe, Eastern China, Japan

CLIMATE
- temperature changes depending on the four distinct seasons
- average annual temperature is 50 degrees Fahrenheit
- average rainfall is 30 to 60 inches a year

VEGETATION
- tree stratum zone: oak, each, maple, chestnut hickory 
- small tree and sapling zone: young, short trees
- shrub zone: azaleas, mountain laurel
- herb zone: perennial herbs
- ground zone: lichen, mosses

ANIMALS
- Asian black bear, red fox, cardinal, woodpecker

BENEFITS / COMMON USES
- fertile soil for agriculture
- logging
- beautiful scenery
- purifies air and improves breathing quality