Arctic tundra
Definition
The Arctic tundra is a cold, treeless biome found in the northern hemisphere, characterized by permafrost and low biodiversity. It experiences long, harsh winters and short, cool summers.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- The Arctic tundra has a layer of soil that remains frozen year-round called permafrost.
- Vegetation in the Arctic tundra mainly consists of low-lying plants like mosses, lichens, and shrubs.
- Animals adapted to this biome include caribou, Arctic foxes, and migratory bird species.
- The growing season in the Arctic tundra is typically only about 50 to 60 days long due to extreme temperatures.
- Climate change poses significant threats to the Arctic tundra by causing permafrost to melt and altering habitats.
Review Questions
- What is permafrost, and how does it impact the Arctic tundra ecosystem?
- Name three types of vegetation commonly found in the Arctic tundra biome.
- How does climate change affect the Arctic tundra?
"Arctic tundra" appears in:
Subjects (1)
Related terms
Permafrost: A thick subsurface layer of soil that remains frozen throughout the year.
Taiga: A biome characterized by coniferous forests found just south of the Arctic tundra.
Biodiversity: The variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem.
