3. Describe the ecosystem in which you live.

Riverdale, Maryland, experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Summers are
typically hot and humid, while winters can be cold. Precipitation is distributed throughout the
year, including rain in warmer months and occasional snow in winter. Abiotic factors include
various soil types, proximity to the Anacostia River, and the influence of urban development.
Biotic factors encompass a variety of deciduous trees, shrubs, and wildlife commonly found in
the mid-Atlantic region.

4. Observe the flora (plants) of your ecosystem. (a-e)

a. Riverdale's flora may include a mix of deciduous trees like oak and maple, along with shrubs
and flowering plants.

b. Two examples of native plants in Riverdale could be the Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida)
and the Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta).

c. Choosing one plant (e.g., Flowering Dogwood), you would describe its features in detail,
including its name, characteristics, and any notable adaptations.

d. Researching how the plant reproduces and survives in the Riverdale ecosystem, including
any specific adaptations.

e. Searching for "native plants in Riverdale, Maryland" could yield additional plant species native
to the area.

5. Observe the fauna (animals) of your ecosystem. (a-e)

a. Fauna in Riverdale may include various bird species, such as cardinals and robins, mammals
like squirrels and deer, and aquatic life in the Anacostia River.

b. Two examples of native animals in Riverdale could be the White-tailed Deer and the Eastern
Gray Squirrel.

c. Describing one animal (e.g., White-tailed Deer) in detail, including its name, characteristics,
and adaptations.

d. Researching how the animal reproduces and survives in the Riverdale ecosystem, including
any specific adaptations.

e. Searching for "native animals in Riverdale, Maryland" could provide a list of additional native
animal species.
6. Research the climate of Riverdale, Maryland. (a-c)

a. Riverdale's elevation, latitude, and longitude data would need to be obtained for detailed
climate analysis.

b. Researching the average temperature for Riverdale, possibly using local weather data or
online resources.

c. Researching precipitation data for Riverdale, either from local weather records or provided
online resources.

7. Which biome do you live in? Justify your answer using the data you collected.

Given Riverdale's characteristics—temperate climate, diverse vegetation, and wildlife—it aligns

closely with the Temperate Forest biome.

8. Using printed media or the Internet, research the Temperate Forest biome. Where else on
Earth is this biome found? What features have you not identified?

Explore information on the Temperate Forest biome, understanding its global distribution, and
specific features. The Temperate Forest biome is found in regions like North America, Europe,
and parts of Asia. Features you may not have identified could include specific plant and animal
species unique to the Temperate Forest biome and their ecological roles.