Tackling on environmental changes in Tibetan Plateau with focus on water, ecosystem and adaptation

Overview

Water Cycle The water cycle describes how water continuously moves through the Earth's atmosphere, surface, and underground layers. This process includes evaporation, condensation, precipitation, infiltration, and runoff. The sun drives the cycle by providing energy for evaporation, while gravity moves water through systems and returns it to bodies of water. The water cycle is essential for replenishing freshwater sources, supporting ecosystems, and regulating climate. Scientists can better...

Water plays a significant role in the life cycle of plants. However, insufficient or excess of water can be detrimental and pose a serious threat to plants.

Aquatic BiomeAquatic biomes are ecosystems found in water environments, including freshwater and marine systems. These biomes are classified based on salinity, water depth, temperature, and flow. Major types include rivers, lakes, wetlands, estuaries, coral reefs, and oceans. Aquatic biomes are vital for life on Earth as they support biodiversity, regulate climate, and provide resources like food and oxygen. Each biome is uniquely adapted to support species suited to water-based conditions,...

Terrestrial BiomeTerrestrial biomes are large areas of land that share the same climate, types of plants, and animals. They are influenced by temperature, the amount of rainfall, and the land’s shape and height. The main types of terrestrial biomes are deserts, grasslands, forests, and tundras. Each biome has its special environment where different animals and plants can live and grow. These biomes are important because they support many kinds of life and help balance the Earth’s...

Though evaporation from plant leaves drives transpiration, it also results in loss of water. Because water is critical for photosynthetic reactions and other cellular processes, evolutionary pressures on plants in different environments have driven the acquisition of adaptations that reduce water loss.