Embedded Files
What is a prairie?
What is a prairie?
A prairie is a habitat dominated by grass and forbs. Characterized by their open grasslands, and absence of trees. Home to many insects and grazing animals, prairies support a number of ecosystems within. If you look closely, you could be lucky enough to spot small burrowing animals, different bird species, insects, bugs, and so much more. Great Lakes Alliance "Grass variants make up 50-95% of a prairie's vegetation-"
Getting to the bottom of it
Getting to the bottom of it
The beauty of a prairie is more than what we can see on the surface. 70-80% of a plants bio mass is actually located in the ground, taking the form of roots National Parks Service estimates. Various prairie plants have roots that can extend 5-15 feet into soil. Their ability to spread horizontally allows more space to occupy other roots and plants for the prairie to hold.
Winter in the prairie
Winter in the prairie
During the change of seasons, the prairie may not look like much. Unlike summer, with the full green vegetation, butterflies, and blooming flowers, winters in Michigan treat the environment harshly. Perennials are plants that protect their roots in order to come back each spring. Perennials have extensive roots, reaching deep into the soil and protecting them from the harsh conditions, story energy, and preventing erosion. Sometimes, when the plants and grasses in the prairie look lifeless, digging deeper can reveal all their biological characteristics that allow them to thrive underground as well as above.
Page updated
Report abuse