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Where are temperate forests found around the world?
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Temperate forest
Worldwide distribution of temperate forests.
Temperate forests are found globally between approximately 25° and 50° latitude in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Their specific distribution is largely determined by local conditions, including temperature, rainfall, and soil.12
Regional Distribution
- North America: Deciduous forests are primarily located in the eastern United States and southeastern Canada. Temperate rainforests are found along the western coast, extending from northern California through Oregon, Washington, and Canada to Alaska.134
- Europe: Deciduous forests are widespread across western and central Europe. Remnant temperate rainforests occur in parts of the United Kingdom and Norway.134
- Asia: Deciduous forests are found in eastern Asia, including parts of China, Korea, and Japan.13
- Southern Hemisphere:
- South America: Temperate forests, including deciduous and evergreen types, are found in southern regions, particularly along the coast of Chile.143
- Oceania: Broad-leaved evergreen forests dominate New Zealand, while temperate rainforests and sclerophyllous forests are found in southeastern Australia and Tasmania.14
- Africa: Small areas of broad-leaved forests occur in southern Africa.1
Temperate rainforests specifically occur in middle latitudes, mostly between 40° and 60°, where they are characterized by abundant moisture and mild temperatures.4