What are The Steppes characterized by?

The Steppes are characterized primarily by dry grasslands that stretch across vast areas, particularly extending north of the Caucasus Mountains. This distinctive landscape features relatively few trees and a predominance of grasses, making it ideal for grazing livestock. The climate in the Steppe regions is typically continental, with hot summers and cold winters, leading to conditions that favor grasslands over dense forests or urban areas.

The location north of the Caucasus Mountains highlights the geographical significance of the Steppes, as they are part of a larger ecosystem that includes various terrains, but they stand out due to their expansive grassy plains. This environment supports a nomadic lifestyle, traditionally adopted by various ethnic groups throughout history, which relied on the movement of herds in search of grazing land.

In contrast, lush green forests, dense urban landscapes, and snow-capped mountains represent distinctly different ecosystems and geographic characteristics, which do not align with the defining features of the Steppes.