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