California Mediterranean Research Learning Center: National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior
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About the Mediterranean Ecosystem
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Pacific Tree Frog (Hyla regila) About the Mediterranean Ecosystem: Climate Regions
California and Northern Baja Central Chile Mediterranean Basin Western Cape, South Africa Southwest and South Australia
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Anacapa Island

Percentage of Mediterranean biome worldwide
10%

Location
The Mediterranean habitat in California stretches 300km from the coast in the Southwest to the Northeast. It includes the Coastal Range, the Central Valley, Mt. Whitney (highest point is 4418m), and a portion of the Great Basin.

Main threats
Urbanization, non-native species, agriculture, change in fire frequency and intensity
California and Northern Baja California

Landscape and Terrain
The geologic history of California has produced a complex landscape with variations in topography and climate. Rocky or shallow soils have evergreen shrublands called chaparral. Oak woodlands occur where soils are deeper or moisture more available. Drier areas along the coast and inland at the transition to deserts support coastal sage scrub. The Mediterranean climate region lies west of the Sierra Nevada and includes a portion of coastal Baja California.

Human History
Native Americans entered California 10–12,000 years ago. Although population densities were never high, these peoples nevertheless had significant impacts on their environment, most notably through the use of fire. Rapid population growth in California began with the discovery of gold in 1848, and continues today associated with agricultural expansion, land clearance, and urbanization. Invasive plant species from the Mediterranean Basin have dramatically altered many plant communities.

Climate
Rainfall is highest in January with an average of 80mm and lowest in July averaging just above 0 mm. Average temperatures range from over 25°C (77°F) in August and September to below 10°C (50°F) in January.

Vegetation
Plant communities in the California Mediterranean biome include coastal scrub, chaparral, and oak woodland. Chaparral is the most abundant vegetation type.
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Climate Regions map
Southwest and South AustraliaWestern Cape, South AfricaMediterranean BasinCentral ChileCalifornia and Northern Baja California National Park Service