Fun Fact File: Habitats

Tundra habitats are some of the harshest places on Earth. They exist in the Northern Hemisphere north of the Arctic Circle and on mountains at high altitude. But, all the plants and animals that live in tundra habitats are highly adapted to living there. People have lived in tundra habitats for thousands of years. However, human activity threatens the future of these important places. Using short facts and full-color photographs, this book introduces readers to the vast diversity of tundra habitats around the world and the measures we need to take to preserve them.

What do bogs, marshes, and swamps have in common? They're all kinds of wetlands, which are fascinating ecosystems that are home to myriad species of plants, animals, and microbes. These organisms are adapted to both dry and watery conditions. In this valuable volume, the most interesting and informative facts about wetlands are presented through accessible text and colorful photographs. Essential concepts of the elementary science classroom, such as adaptations and habitats, are given special attention. Graphic organizers help clarify and review key ideas for budding ecologists.

If you think grasslands are just boring old grass, think again. This high-interest volume is packed with facts about these rich habitats that cover one-fourth of our planet. Readers will learn that grasslands actually need wildfires to stay healthy. Some places use skilled firefighters to start fires in grasslands on purpose. Amazing photographs take readers up close to the curious creatures that call grasslands home, from antelope in the North American prairie to zebras in the African savanna. Eye-catching maps inspire young explorers to see these amazing habitats for themselves.

Vast numbers of Earth's plants and animals live in the planet's oceans, but scientists estimate we know about far less than half of them. It may be impossible to know just how many creatures live there, but it's clear that marine habitats are home to thousands of species. With this intriguing book, readers will get a peek into one of the most unusual, least known habitats on the planet. From brightly colored and endangered coral reefs to the darkest of ocean depths, this volume will fascinate kids with information about Earth's most mysterious habitat.

Forests are growing all over the world. They're one of the most familiar habitats, but they come in some truly bizarre and beautiful forms. Readers will learn cool facts about different forest habitats around the globe. They'll meet the animals and plants that call forests of all kinds home. Beautiful full-color photographs and graphic organizers illustrate key concepts in a fun way. Avid and struggling readers alike will flock to this fun and informative book.

You might think that dry, dusty deserts would be empty of plants or animals, but you'd be incorrect. Young readers will learn fascinating facts about Earth's sprawling desert habitats and the creatures that call them home. From the chilly Gobi in Asia to the blazing Sahara in Africa, this book will bust misconceptions about Earth's deserts and show off their unique beauty in full-color photographs. Informative maps show how each of Earth's continents has deserts, and fun details about unique desert creatures will intrigue curious readers.