Exploring Grassland Biomes: Grasslands Today

The temperate grasslands of North America have undergone significant changes, with less than 1% of the original tall grass prairie remaining in places like Iowa. Early settlers were drawn to the rich soil, leading to the prairie being plowed for agriculture. Today, these plains are among the most productive agricultural areas globally. However, only small portions of the original prairies are preserved, offering a glimpse into the complexity and beauty of grassland biomes.

What percentage of the original tall grass prairie remains in Iowa?

• 10%

• 5%

• 1%

• 15%

What was the main reason early settlers were attracted to the prairies?

• The rich soil

• The abundant wildlife

• The scenic beauty

• The mild climate

What crop did settlers primarily grow after plowing the prairies?

• Corn

• Wheat

• Barley

• Rice

Which region is now one of the largest agricultural areas in the world?

• The Amazon Basin

• The Great Plains of North America

• The Australian Outback

• The Sahara Desert

Where can you still see the complexity and beauty of the original grassland biomes?

• In preserved areas

• In urban parks

• In agricultural fields

• In residential gardens