Global Biomes and Population Dynamics
Biomes and Ecosystems
Definition of a Biome
A biome is a collection of animals and plants that live in a given area.
Biomes by Climate Zone
Warm Climate Biomes
- Desert
- Savanna
- Forest
Temperate Biomes
- Deciduous Forest
- Mediterranean
- Steppe
- Prairie
Cold Climate Biomes
- Tundra
- Coniferous Forests
Population Dynamics in Latin America
Spatial Distribution and Structure
Population is distributed unevenly across space, leading to significant inequality. Its structure is defined by sex and age. Population size varies over time due to natural growth and net migration.
Factors Influencing Population Distribution
- Economic opportunities
- Availability of infrastructure
- Means of transport
- Job opportunities
- Access to hospitals or schools
- Natural conditions
Population Density
Population density indicates the number of residents per unit of surface area. To calculate density, the number of inhabitants is divided by the square kilometers of the surface.
Urban Growth Rate
The urban growth rate is an indicator that measures the increase in population living in urban areas.
Anglo-American Population Distribution
Urban and Rural Population Percentages
In the U.S. and Canada, approximately 80% of the population lives in urban areas, with a smaller percentage (around 5%) residing in rural areas.
Urban Hierarchies: Metropolis and Megalopolis
- Metropolis: A major urban center, often a cluster of cities.
- Megalopolis: A cluster of metropolises.
Population Distribution Differences
The key difference is that population distribution in the U.S. and Canada tends to be more evenly spread compared to other countries where it occurs unevenly.
Major Population Concentrations
- USA: New York (18,747,320 inhabitants)
- Canada: Toronto (5,406,300 inhabitants)
Internal and External Migration
Understanding Migration
Migrations are displacements people make in order to change their place of residence.
Types of Migration
Internal Migration
When people migrate from one region to another within the same country.
External Migration
When migration crosses the borders of countries.
Key Reasons for Migration
Economic, social, and cultural situations are key reasons for people to migrate, particularly those driving migration from Latin America.
Negative Impacts of Migration
- Difficulty finding a decent job or living conditions
- Loss of contact with families
- Social non-acceptance and discrimination based on origin
- Victimization by racism
- Lack of proper documentation
Urban Segregation
Urban segregation reflects geographic location: the residence and activities of immigrants often establish specific spaces within the city.
Fertility Rates in Latin America
Countries with Highest Fertility Rates
- Bolivia: 3.82
- Guatemala: 4.41
- Haiti: 3.98
- Honduras: 3.72
- Nicaragua: 3.75
- Paraguay: 3.84
Countries with Lowest Fertility Rates
- Brazil: 2.21
- Costa Rica: 2.28
- Cuba: 1.55
- Puerto Rico: 1.89
- Trinidad and Tobago: 1.55
- Uruguay: 2.30