What type of forest is characterized by distinct seasons and trees that shed leaves annually?

The correct choice identifies a type of forest known for its distinct seasonal changes and the annual shedding of leaves by trees. Deciduous forests can be found in temperate regions where there are four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. During the autumn, the trees enter a state of dormancy and lose their leaves to conserve water and energy during the cold winter months. This adaptive strategy allows deciduous trees to survive in climates that experience significant temperature variations throughout the year.

In contrast, tropical rainforests, located near the equator, do not experience the same seasonal changes. They maintain a warm climate year-round with high humidity and rainfall, leading to evergreen trees that retain their leaves throughout the year. Boreal forests, or taiga, are characterized by coniferous trees that are adapted to cold climates, primarily retaining their needle-like leaves. Grasslands, on the other hand, do not feature dense tree coverage typical of forests and are dominated by grasses, with only occasional clusters of trees. This context emphasizes why the deciduous forest stands out as the sole forest type with a clear annual leaf-shedding cycle and seasonal shifts.