The Most Difficult Biome to Survive in, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the biome you think is the most difficult!

Updated on May 4, 2024 06:23

Survival scenarios vary drastically across different environments, challenging adventurers with unique obstacles and dangers. Understanding which biome is the most challenging can help prepare for survival strategies and educational insights. This ranking serves as a dynamic resource for adventurers and enthusiasts alike to gauge which environments are toughest to conquer. By participating in this voting process, users contribute to a collective assessment, refining our understanding of each biome's survival difficulty. The live ranking updates with each vote cast, reflecting current opinions and experiences. This interactive process not only enhances our global knowledge but also engages the community in sharing pivotal survival wisdom.

What Is the Most Difficult Biome to Survive in?

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100
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Mike Beauregard from Nunavut, Canada · CC BY 2.0

Arctic Tundra

The Arctic Tundra is the most difficult biome to survive in because of its extreme cold, limited food availability, and harsh weather conditions. The average temperature in the tundra is below freezing, and the ground is frozen for most of the year. The vegetation is sparse, and there are few animals, making it difficult to find food.
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18
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Desert

Deserts are harsh environments with extreme temperatures, little water, and few resources. Surviving in a desert requires a lot of preparation, including finding sources of water, shelter, and food. The desert is also home to dangerous predators, such as snakes and scorpions.
The desert is a barren expanse of land characterized by sparse vegetation, extreme temperatures, and minimal precipitation. It is a unique biome that covers about one-fifth of the Earth's surface.

Temperatures: Extreme heat during the day and cold temperatures at night

Precipitation: Less than 250 millimeters (10 inches) of rainfall annually

Vegetation: Sparse vegetation adapted to survive in arid conditions

Sand Dunes: Large mounds of sand formed by wind action

Ecosystems: Home to specialized desert-adapted plants and animals
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23
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Rainforest

The rainforest is a difficult biome to survive in because of its high humidity, dense vegetation, and dangerous animals. The rainforest is home to many predators, such as jaguars, anacondas, and crocodiles, and venomous insects and spiders. The dense vegetation makes it difficult to navigate and find shelter.
The rainforest is a dense, lush and tropical biome characterized by high levels of precipitation and a rich variety of plant and animal life. It is considered one of the most difficult biomes to survive in due to its extreme humidity, dense vegetation, and fierce competition for resources.

Climate: High temperatures and rainfall throughout the year

Vegetation: Tall trees, dense undergrowth, and epiphytes

Biodiversity: Home to millions of species, including a vast array of insects, birds, mammals, and reptiles

Canopy: Layers of leaves and branches forming a dense covering above the forest floor

Shelter: Provides shelter for countless creatures, including some of the world's most rare and endangered species
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21
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Ocean

The ocean is a challenging environment to survive in because of the lack of oxygen, extreme pressure, and limited resources. The ocean is also home to many predators, such as sharks and killer whales, and dangerous sea creatures, such as jellyfish and stingrays.
The Ocean is a vast biome characterized by its immense body of saltwater covering approximately 70% of the Earth's surface. It is a challenging environment for survival due to its high salt content, extreme depths, and unpredictable weather conditions.

Size: Covers about 70% of the Earth's surface

Salinity: High salt content

Depth: Extends to great depths ranging from a few meters to several kilometers

Temperature: Varies based on location, ranging from freezing to tropical

Pressure: Increases with depth, exerting immense pressure on organisms
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7
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Mountain

The mountains are difficult to survive in because of the extreme weather conditions, limited food and water, and high altitude. The thin air at high altitude makes it difficult to breathe, and the cold temperatures can lead to hypothermia. The lack of vegetation and water makes it hard to find resources.
The Mountain biome is a challenging and harsh environment characterized by lofty peaks, steep slopes, and extreme weather conditions. It is often considered one of the most difficult biomes to survive in.

Elevation: High altitude with towering peaks

Steep Terrain: Vertical slopes and rugged cliffs

Extreme Weather: Frequent and intense storms, blizzards, and strong winds

Low Oxygen Levels: Thinner air and reduced oxygen availability at high altitudes

Temperature Fluctuations: Drastic temperature changes from freezing cold to scorching heat
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15
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Grassland

The grasslands are a challenging environment to survive in because of the extreme temperatures, limited water, and dangerous predators. The grasslands are home to many predators, such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas, and venomous snakes. The lack of water makes it difficult to find resources.
Grasslands are vast areas characterized by wide stretches of open grasses, with few if any trees. They are found on every continent except Antarctica and exhibit immense beauty in their simplicity and serene landscapes. The grasslands are typically dominated by various grass species, which create a unique ecosystem supporting a diverse range of plant and animal life. The rolling grassy plains, interspersed with scattered trees and colorful wildflowers, create a captivating sight that has inspired artists, writers, and photographers for centuries.

Location: On every continent except Antarctica

Dominant Vegetation: Various grass species

Biodiversity: Supports diverse plant and animal life

Climate: Varies across different grassland types, from hot and tropical to temperate and cool

Importance: Essential for carbon storage and regulation of greenhouse gases
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9
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Tropics

The tropics are a difficult biome to survive in because of the high humidity, extreme temperatures, and dangerous animals. The tropics are home to many predators, such as tigers and crocodiles, and venomous insects and snakes. The high humidity makes it difficult to regulate body temperature.
The tropics is a geographical region located between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn, known for its unique climate and diverse ecosystems. In the tropics, temperatures are generally high year-round, and there is a high level of biodiversity. Despite its beauty, surviving in the tropics can be challenging due to the extreme heat, humidity, and abundant rainfall.

Vegetation: Lush rainforests, dense jungles, and vibrant coral reefs

Temperature: Consistently high temperatures, often exceeding 30°C (86°F)

Humidity: High levels of humidity, resulting in a constantly damp environment

Rainfall: Abundant rainfall throughout the year, with frequent tropical storms

Diversity: Home to numerous plant and animal species, showcasing high biodiversity
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11
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CIA · Public domain

Arctic Ocean

The Arctic Ocean is a difficult environment to survive in because of the extreme cold, lack of sunlight, and limited resources. The Arctic Ocean is home to many predators, such as polar bears and killer whales, and the lack of sunlight makes it difficult for plants and animals to survive.
The Arctic Ocean is a vast and challenging biome located at the Earth's polar region. It is primarily composed of frozen seawater, and its unique conditions make it one of the most difficult environments to survive in. The extreme cold temperatures, limited food sources, and treacherous icy surfaces pose significant challenges to both humans and wildlife.

Harsh Winds: Strong winds can reach speeds over 160 km/h (100 mph)

Salinity: Saltwater with lower salinity than other oceans due to freshwater input from melting ice

Temperature Range: As low as -40°C (-40°F)

Ice Cover: Approximately 14 million square kilometers

Depth: Average depth of 1,038 meters (3,406 feet)
Arctic Ocean in other rankings
- Position 5 of 10 in Most popular ocean
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Savannah

The savannah is a challenging environment to survive in because of the extreme temperatures, limited water, and dangerous predators. The savannah is home to many predators, such as lions and leopards, and venomous snakes. The lack of water makes it difficult to find resources.
Savannah is a captivating city located in the state of Georgia in the United States. It is renowned for its remarkable beauty, with its historic charm, lush greenery, and picturesque landscapes. This city seamlessly merges Southern grace with modern vibrance, making it a destination that appeals to visitors from all walks of life.

Historic District: Savannah's Historic District is a designated National Historic Landmark, featuring over 20 city squares, each surrounded by gorgeous homes and oak-lined streets.

Forsyth Park: Forsyth Park is a stunning urban green space with a magnificent fountain, walking paths, and expansive lawns, providing a peaceful retreat within the city.

River Street: River Street is a bustling cobblestoned street lined with attractive boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and bars, offering beautiful views of the Savannah River.

Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD): SCAD is a prestigious art and design university that has greatly influenced the city's creative atmosphere.

Garden Squares: The city is adorned with numerous garden squares, such as Chippewa Square and Lafayette Square, providing serene oases amidst the city's hustle and bustle.
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5
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Stephen Hudson · CC BY 2.5

Polar Desert

The polar desert is a difficult biome to survive in because of the extreme cold, lack of water, and limited resources. The polar desert is home to many predators, such as polar bears and arctic foxes, and the lack of water makes it difficult for plants and animals to survive.
The Polar Desert is a highly challenging biome characterized by extreme cold temperatures, minimal precipitation, and vast expanses of ice and snow. It is predominantly found near the Earth's polar regions, including the Arctic and Antarctic regions.

Temperature Range: Can drop below -40 degrees Celsius

Precipitation: Less than 250 mm annually

Dominant Surface: Ice and snow

Daylight Hours: Polar night during winter with continuous darkness

Biodiversity: Relatively low due to harsh conditions

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Ranking factors for difficult biome

Climate extremes

This includes temperature extremes (both hot and cold), humidity or aridity, and overall climate stability. The more extreme and unstable the climate, the harder it is to survive.
Availability of water

Water is critical for survival, both for drinking and for supporting plant and animal life. The availability and quality of water sources need to be considered in assessing the difficulty of surviving in a particular biome.
Food resources

The abundance, variety, and ease of access to food sources, including both plant and animal life, play a critical role in the ability to survive in a biome.
Shelter from the elements

The availability of materials and resources to build a shelter and protect oneself from the weather and temperature fluctuations is important for survival.
Predators and dangerous creatures

The presence of potential threats from animals, insects, or other creatures can increase the difficulty of survival in a biome.
Natural hazards

The risk of natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes, landslides, or volcanic eruptions impact the difficulty of surviving in a biome.
Isolation and accessibility

The remoteness of the biome and its accessibility to human settlements and infrastructure are important factors for survival, as it affects the ability to get assistance, resources, and knowledge.
Seasonal variation

Some biomes may have extreme seasonal variations that add to the challenge of survival, such as harsh winters or droughts.
Disease prevalence

The presence of diseases, infections, or other health risks can make a biome more difficult to survive in.
Adaptability of the human body

Different biomes require different adaptations and survival skills. The ability of the human body to adapt to the specific conditions of a biome is crucial for survival.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most difficult biome to survive in. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or biome is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

2838 views
202 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each biome once every 24 hours. The rank of each biome is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most difficult biome to survive in

Biomes are large areas of land or water that have similar environmental conditions and are home to a unique set of plants and animals. Some biomes are easier to survive in than others, as they offer more resources and milder climates. However, some biomes can be incredibly challenging to survive in, requiring specialized skills and knowledge. From the freezing temperatures of the tundra to the scorching heat of the desert, each biome presents its own set of obstacles and dangers. In this article, we'll explore some of the most difficult biomes to survive in and what makes them so challenging.