Northern evergreen forests, also known as taiga, are a biome characterized by coniferous trees such as pines, spruces, and firs. These forests are found in the northern hemisphere, mainly in North America, Europe, and Asia. They are the largest terrestrial biome and cover much of Alaska, Canada, Scandinavia, and Russia. Taiga is a Russian word meaning 'forest of the north'. The climate in these forests is cold and dry, with long, cold winters and short, warm summers. The soil is nutrient-poor and acidic, making it difficult for many plants to grow. Despite these harsh conditions, the taiga is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, wolves, lynx, and moose.