The boreal forest, also known as taiga, is a biome characterized by coniferous forests consisting mostly of pines, spruces, and larches. It is found in the northern regions of North America, Europe, and Asia, just below the Arctic Circle. This forest type plays a crucial role in the global carbon cycle, acting as a significant carbon sink. Boreal forests are vital for understanding climate change impacts and are subject to environmental threats like logging, mining, and climate-induced shifts in species distribution.
Reference: Bonan, G. B., & Shugart, H. H. (1989). “Environmental Factors and Ecological Processes in Boreal Forests.” Annual Review of Ecology and Systematics, 20(1), 1-28.