Australia, Oceania, and Antarctica Mr. Broughman Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Physical Features There is an extreme contrast in biomes in Australia, but most of the country consists of an arid desert. In the northern part of the country near the equator, there is a tropical climate, proving there is a wide range of vegetation on the continent. Australia is the smallest continent, but is also the world’s sixth largest country. The Great Dividing Range is Australia’s longest mountain range and the third longest in the world at more than 2,100 miles. It runs almost perfectly along the eastern coast of the country.

Physical Features Just off the northeastern coast of Australia is the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest reef system and one of the most precious ecosystems in the world.Great Barrier Reef The far southern landmass is Antarctica. It is the coldest, windiest, and driest place on earth.  It also has NO PERMANENT RESIDENTS, only scientists who study the region during the warmer parts of the year.

Finding Nemo

Physical Features What are the three types of islands in the South Pacific? –A. Coral OR Atoll – Coral rising above the ocean’s surface (Bikini Atoll) –B. Volcanic – Result of lava rising above the surface (Hawaii) –C. Continental – Broke apart from a continental mass (Australia, New Zealand)

Physical Features  Why does Australia have such unique wildlife compared to other places in the world? –As an island, it is incredibly isolated from any other place in the world. This prevents the migrations of animals. –Deadly Animals of AustraliaDeadly Animals of Australia