FLORA AND FAUNA OF FRANCE: MAIN CHARACTERISTICS - BIOLOGY - 2024

The flora and fauna of France is as diverse as the different geographical areas and climates it has. On the one hand, two well marked situations are recognized: one side of the country faces the Atlantic and the other the Mediterranean.

The typical sea climate of the west coast has mild temperatures and abundant rainfall all year round.

Chamois

Since there are no mountains in this sector, the sea air masses penetrate kilometers into the interior of the country.

In the Mediterranean climate there is greater thermal oscillation between winter and summer. Rainfall is less abundant and is concentrated in spring and autumn.

On the other hand, there is also a mountain climate, which is found in the Alps and the Pyrenees. In these areas the climate is colder and wetter.

The 5 main representatives of the flora of France

1- Robles

They are abundant in the Nordic forests of France. One of the uses of its wood is for wine barrels.

The ideal age range of the tree for the elaboration of barrels is between 200 and 350 years. This wood gives the wine a special and characteristic flavor.

2- Olives

The olive trees are found on the country's Mediterranean coast and are used to make olive oil. France is the fifth largest producer in the European Community.

The main varieties of olives for its production are Tanche, Picholine and Bouteillan.

3- Vine

The vine is mainly used to make wine. The vines are found on the Mediterranean coast of the country.

Wine is considered a fundamental part of the gastronomy of France.

4- Laurel

The shrub is found in the Mediterranean area. Its leaves are used as a condiment in cooking.

The leaves, fresh or dried, are used to flavor soups, broths and sauces that require a long cooking time. The leaves are removed before serving the dishes.

5- Juniper

It is found abundantly in the subalpine zone and is used for medicinal purposes.

Among the benefits of the use of juniper stands out the stimulation of the kidneys. It improves digestion and contains expectorant properties, in addition to other qualities.

The 5 main representatives of the fauna of France

1- Brown bear

It is a species that is in a vulnerable situation with partial extinctions worldwide.

The French state has financed funds for the reintroduction of the brown bear in the Pyrenees.

2- Rebeco

The chamois, also known as sarrio or ante, is a bovid found in the Pyrenees.

The size of the adults ranges from 110 to 130 centimeters long. The weight varies between 20 and 30 kg.

Males are larger than females, with darker and more marked colors, and their antlers are longer.

3- Marmot

The marmot is a species that lives in the Pyrenees. It is from the squirrel family. It is a very social animal with diurnal habits.

It has great agility in its front hands and uses them to dig its burrows.

4- Hare

The hare is among the main game animals in France. They are characterized by their long limbs and ears.

The hair is yellowish brown. The young are capable of running and feeding themselves from the moment of birth.

5- Ferret

The ferret is a mammal that has been domesticated by humans. They are intelligent and extremely curious animals.

In France it is found free in the forests and its hunting is prohibited.

References

1. Olive oil and olive varieties in France, Greece and Italy. (sf). Obtained from Sabor Mediterráneo: gustomediterraneo.com
2. French oak, the wisdom of wine. (sf). Obtained from El Independiente: elindependiente.com
3. Flora and Fauna of France. (sf). Obtained from French Tourist Guide: Francia.net
4. Ferret. (sf). Obtained from Animal Expert: expertanimal.com
5. Juniper Properties. (sf). Obtained from Botanical: botanical-online.com