Spring
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| Photography by Dr. Sharon Johnson drsharonjohnson@comcast.net |
Imagery & site design by
Kat G. Kalamaras |
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Spring |
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| Because rain-bearing storms typically come from the west, east of the Sierran crest the climate is drier. This is effect is known as a "rainshadow" and is reflected in the biomes that develop here. This biome, called "steppe" typically consists of drought tolerant shrub species like sage (Artemisia) and grasses. Note the typical look of the landscape in this image: It is spring so snow still covers the crest. The shores of Mono Lake are snow free (elevation about 6,000') but winter temperatures require that vegetation tolerate cold and snow cover. These plants have not yet put out their new seasonal growth. | ||||||
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