Isle Royale National Park, located in Lake Superior, Michigan, is a remote and rugged island that supports a unique combination of biomes. The park's diverse landscape, including forests, wetlands, and lakes, provides habitat for a variety of plant and animal species. Keep on reading to learn more about the biomes at Isle Royale National Park
Boreal Forest
The park's boreal forest biome is characterized by coniferous trees such as white spruce, balsam fir, and paper birch. This biome provides habitat for species including moose, wolves, red foxes, and snowshoe hares.
Northern Hardwood Forest
In addition to the boreal forest, Isle Royale features northern hardwood forests, with a mix of deciduous trees like sugar maple, yellow birch, and American basswood. This forest type supports diverse wildlife, including white-tailed deer, squirrels, and various bird species.
Wetlands
Isle Royale's wetland biome includes bogs, swamps, marshes, and other wet habitats that are crucial for species like beavers, frogs, and various waterfowl. These areas are also vital for plant species adapted to wet conditions, such as cattails and sphagnum moss.
Freshwater Lakes and Streams
The park's freshwater lakes and streams are teeming with aquatic life, from brook trout and lake trout to a variety of invertebrates. These freshwater ecosystems also provide habitats for amphibians and serve as critical water sources for terrestrial animals.
Rocky Shorelines
The rugged, rocky shorelines of Isle Royale, with their wave-swept cliffs and cobble beaches, support specialized plant and animal communities. Here, you can find hardy plant species such as lichens and mosses, as well as birds like gulls and cormorants that thrive in these harsh coastal conditions.