Memory Game Biome Definition & CharacteristicsOnline version Learn about biomes. by Andrea Lecuona Biomes contain many ecosystems within the same area. Definition Land-based biomes are called terrestrial biomes. Water-based biomes Ecosystems Characteristics A biome is a large area of land that is classified based on the climate, plants and animals that make their homes there. Temperatures, precipitation amounts and prevalent organisms characterize the biomes of the world. Land-based biomes Water-based biomes are called aquatic biomes.