What is a key characteristic of a deciduous forest?

A key characteristic of a deciduous forest is the presence of distinct seasons, which significantly influences the behavior of the trees within this biome. Deciduous trees, such as maple, oak, and birch, are known for their annual leaf shedding in response to the changing seasons. Typically, these trees lose their leaves in the fall as a means to conserve water and energy during the colder winter months when resources are limited.

This seasonal cycle is a defining trait of deciduous forests and contributes to their rich biodiversity, allowing different plant and animal species to thrive throughout the year. Unlike evergreen forests, which maintain foliage year-round, deciduous forests experience a dramatic transformation as the seasons change, with vibrant foliage in spring and summer transitioning to bare branches in winter.

The other options do not accurately define deciduous forests: they either describe characteristics of different forest types or features not found in deciduous ecosystems. For instance, year-round warm temperatures are more typical of tropical forests, while coniferous trees, which retain their needles, are dominant in boreal forests.