Which of the following is NOT considered a major type of biome?

The correct choice of "beaches" as not being a major type of biome can be understood from the classification of biomes in ecology. Biomes are large ecological areas on the earth's surface, with flora and fauna adapting to their environment. Major types of biomes include deserts, grasslands, tundra, forests, and aquatic systems, among others. These classifications are based on significant differences in climate, geography, and ecosystems.

Deserts, grasslands, and tundra are recognized as distinct biomes characterized by their unique climatic conditions and biological communities. Deserts are defined by low rainfall, grasslands by their dominance of grasses, and tundra by its cold climate and permafrost. In contrast, beaches are not classified as biomes because they are more accurately described as specific landforms or ecosystems rather than extensive, distinct ecological regions with defined characteristics and biota. They serve as transitional zones between terrestrial and marine systems, which do not fit into the broader categorization of biomes.

Understanding this distinction clarifies how "beaches" do not align with the traditional definitions of major biomes in the study of ecology.