VR Biomes

Explore Biomes in Virtual Reality

While it is fun to visit and explore each biome in person, it is not likely that you can get to all of them. So we are gathering some 360 views of the different biomes that you can use to explore and learn about each biome. It is like having your own private window looking into these amazing places.

There are three ways to view each biome. You can use a computer and click and drag to look around. You can also use your smart phone like an iPhone or Android with their gyroscope enabled function to look into each biome. In this mode you can move the phone around as you to look into the biome. Finally, if you have Virtual Reality (VR) goggles like Google Cardboard, you can immerse yourself into each biome. Be sure to stand up and turn and look around to view all of the space.

We are just getting started, so bookmark this page so you can find your way back to explore more virtual biomes as they are released. We also welcome your feedback and suggestions.

How to explore the virtual biomes

Once you enter the biomes there are some basic icons you want to look for while you explore each one. The most important one is the Target Icon. You can find them located throughout each biome. They are used to move from location to location. On a computer, smart phone, or tablet you can click or touch the icon to move to the new location. When using goggles, you place the pointer on top of the Target Icon to move to the new location.

Information Icon - information about a point of interest in the biome.

Target Icon - takes you to a new location in the biome.

Biologist Notebook

When you explore these different biomes you will want to take notes of what you see and hear. You can use your own notebook, or download our custom designed Biologist Notebook that can be used to document your travels and discoveries.

Desert Biome VR 360

This virtual biome is from the desert southwest of the United States. This desert biome is filled with desert plants and animals. Be sure to be on the look out for the rattlesnake.

As you explore this biome, take notes on the types of plants and animals you find. Here are a few questions to get you started.

  • How are the plants and animals different than in other biomes?
  • What would you expect to be the biggest challenges for plants and animals that live in the desert?
  • Can you find the rattlesnake, Gila monster, and bird nest?
  • Learn more about the desert biome.

Rainforest Biome VR 360

Pop into this virtual rainforest found in Panama. Listen to the animals and explore the lush green plant life.

As you explore this biome, take notes on the types of plants and animals you find. Here are a few questions to get you started.

  • How are the plants and animals different than in other biomes?
  • What would you expect to be the biggest challenges for plants and animals that live in the rainforest?
  • Can you find the termite nest?
  • What role do fungi have in the forest?
  • Learn more about the rainforest biome.

Temperate Forest VR 360

This virtual biome allows you to explore the temperate forests in Arizona and Colorado. Not only can you jump from location to location, you can also travel in time. Look for the target icons that let you move between summer, fall, and winter seasons.

As you explore this biome, take notes on the types of plants and animals you find. Here are a few questions to get you started.

  • How are the plants and animals different than in other biomes?
  • What would you expect to be the biggest challenges for plants and animals that live in the rainforest?
  • What differences are there between the different seasons?
  • What animals or signs of animals can you find?
  • Learn more about the temperate forest biome.