Latitudinal gradients refer to the variation in species diversity, abundance, and ecological processes that occur along a latitudinal axis, from the equator to the poles. This phenomenon is often studied in the field of biogeography, where researchers aim to understand the patterns and mechanisms that drive changes in biodiversity along latitudinal gradients. Some common patterns observed in latitudinal gradients include higher species diversity near the equator (the 'latitudinal diversity gradient'), as well as changes in species composition and ecosystem function with increasing latitude. Factors such as temperature, precipitation, and habitat availability are known to influence latitudinal gradients in biodiversity.