Lähistroopikas

Lähistroopikas, a Finnish term that translates to "near tropics," refers to a geographical and climatic zone situated just south of the true tropical regions. This transitional area experiences a climate that is warmer and more humid than temperate zones but lacks the consistently high temperatures and rainfall characteristic of the tropics.

The exact boundaries of the Lähistroopikas are not strictly defined and can vary depending on the source and the specific criteria used for classification. Generally, it encompasses regions that lie between approximately 20 and 30 degrees latitude north and south of the equator. These areas often experience distinct wet and dry seasons, with average annual temperatures that are elevated but not equatorial.

Examples of regions often considered to be within the Lähistroopikas include parts of the southern United States, the Mediterranean basin, North Africa, the Middle East, Australia, and South America. Vegetation in these zones can be diverse, ranging from semi-arid scrublands and savannas to subtropical forests, depending on local rainfall patterns and other environmental factors. The climate of the Lähistroopikas supports a wide array of biodiversity, often distinct from both temperate and true tropical ecosystems.