What is a primary characteristic of the boreal forest (taiga)?

The primary characteristic of the boreal forest, also known as taiga, is indeed cold temperatures. This biome is typically found in high northern latitudes and is characterized by long, harsh winters and short, cool summers. The dominant vegetation consists of coniferous trees, which are well-adapted to the cold conditions and can withstand heavy snowfall.

In this environment, the average winter temperatures can often drop well below freezing, significantly influencing the types of flora and fauna that can survive there. The cold climate limits the growth of many other types of vegetation and contributes to a unique ecosystem that includes species adapted to survive harsh conditions.

In contrast, other options describe conditions that are not representative of the boreal forest. For instance, hot climates are associated with different biomes like deserts or tropical forests. While some areas of boreal forest may have moderate humidity, high humidity is more characteristic of tropical regions. Additionally, while biodiversity can be found in the boreal forest, it does not boast the same level of biodiversity as more temperate or tropical biomes, making it less of a defining characteristic.