Memory Game Biome Definition & CharacteristicsOnline version Learn about biomes. by Andrea Lecuona Ecosystems Characteristics Biomes contain many ecosystems within the same area. Definition Land-based biomes Land-based biomes are called terrestrial biomes. Water-based biomes 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. Water-based biomes are called aquatic biomes.