9. What is a biome? A kind of small ecosystem such as desert or tundra. The land surrounding a lake or ocean. A large geographical area with distinct plants and animals. The study of biology.

The correct answer is **C. A large geographical area with distinct plants and animals.**<br /><br />A biome is a major ecological community characterized by dominant vegetation and animal life adapted to a particular climate and environment. Deserts and tundras are examples of *types* of biomes, not a definition of the term itself. The land surrounding a lake or ocean might be *part* of a biome, but it doesn't define what a biome is. And the study of biology is, of course, completely different.<br />