Ecosystem: Grasslands

True to their name, grasslands are areas dominated by a variety of grasses, sedge and rush. They occur on every continent excluding Antarctica. They grow in areas with an annual rainfall between 500 and 1,500mm, where the soil is too low in nutrients for woodland or frequently disturbed by fire or grazing. The roots of the grass form a dense mat, protecting the soil from wind and rain erosion. In many countries (such as Madagascar) degradation of forest habitat by humans has lead to the growth of grassland. Others, like the savannah of Africa and the pampas grasslands of South America, are a natural adaptation to the climate and resources. They provide a variety of habitat, especially for ruminants such as antelopes and their predators.

In countries not historically dominated by grasslands - such as Madagascar and New Zealand - native animals are few, but some - especially hawks - flourish with this more open hunting ground.