Which characteristic of the Mammoth Steppe environment favored grasses and forbs over taller woody vegetation?
Answer
Cold, dry, and windy conditions
The structure of the Mammoth Steppe biome, which was perfectly suited to the mammoth's grazing requirements, was defined by its harsh climate. Specifically, the combination of cold temperatures, dry air, and high winds created conditions where low-growing, densely packed vegetation thrived. These conditions suppressed the establishment and growth of taller woody plants like trees and dense shrubs, ensuring that the landscape remained an open, productive grassland. This environmental filtering mechanism maintained the specific density and type of forage upon which the massive herbivores depended for survival.
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