Fungus feeds off of other living organisms and therefore grows on them. Mushrooms, yeast and mold are examples of this simple organism. How do they come to be and how do they affect us? Learn how fungi release chemicals to digest the substances they live off. Discover some of the unique uses of things like yeast and mold for food and medicine.
Upon the fall of the Roman Empire, a new imperial rule rose. From Constantinople — the "new Rome" — Emperor Constantine ruled land from Spain to Mesopotamia and from Asia to Egypt. A rift with the Catholic Church led to the establishment of the Eastern Church, and eventually the Eastern Roman Empire. The Byzantine Empire survived more than 1,000 years in spite of the deadly plague and attacks from crusaders and pillagers, but eventually fell victim to a new invention: gunpowder.
In the sea, life is as prevalent as it is on land. Learn about the fish, plants, mammals and insects that make up this carefully balanced environment. Find out more about the three major life zones and the groups of living things that inhabit them.
Grasslands are areas with lots of grasses, low rainfall and very few trees. Find out how brush fires and seasonal drought help maintain a perfect home for a variety of organisms by keeping the grass at a low level. Learn about prairies, savannas and steppes and how each is unique in their support of animal life.
Covered with sand and a low water supply, the desert still supports cactus and other life forms. In all this desolation, it is amazing how anything can exist in these conditions but even humans have adapted to life in the deserts of the world. Learn more about how the desert has sustained these life forms with rich soil and unique water storage methods. Also find out about the many different types of deserts and how they vary from other biomes.
