BIO-220, Grand Canyon University
The Temperate Rainforest Biome: A Case Study of the Pacific Northwest Ecosystem
The temperate rainforest biome, characterized by high rainfall and moderate
temperatures, is a unique and vital component of the Earth’s ecological tapestry. One of the most
iconic examples of this biome is the Pacific Northwest ecosystem, stretching from Northern
California through British Columbia to Alaska. This lush, green environment is home to a
diverse array of species, each playing a critical role in maintaining the ecological balance.
A keystone species in the Pacific Northwest temperate rainforest is the Pacific salmon.
These fish are vital to the ecosystem due to their role in nutrient cycling. When salmon return