Artic Tundra By: Lottie and Nate Arctic Tundra

Map

Characteristics Northern Hemisphere, including North Pole Extremely cold climate Low biodiversity Short season of growth and reproduction Limitation of drainage Simple vegetation structure, no deep roots

Climate Average summer F° Average winter -30 F° Rainfall totals 6-10 in/yr.

Seasonal Information Summer is the best time to visit the Arctic Tundra. The temperatures are manageable and animals are out of hibernation. Summer is the main breeding season for arctic animals, so you can see baby animals.

Unique Features Permafrost: underground soil that holds captured water for 2+ years. – Prevents water from soaking into the ground when snow melts during the summer  marshes and ponds – Usually 5 feet deep

Plant Species Low shrubs 400 different varieties of flowers Crustose and Foliuce lichen

Plant Adaptation Plants have adapted to high winds and soil disturbances – Plants group together – Short in height – Can carry out photosynthesis in low temperature and low light intensities

Animal Species Herbivore – Lemmings, caribou, arctic hares Carnivore – Arctic foxes, wolves, polar bears Migratory Birds – Ravens, falcons, loons Insects – Arctic bumble bees Fish – Cod, flatfish, salmon, trout

Animal Adaptations Animals have adapted to withstand cold winters – Breed and raise young quickly in the summer – Additional fat insulation – Many animals migrate or hibernate during winter

Visit the Tundra! Best season to visit is in the summer, many national parks are closed during winter Tours – Car, motorcycle, helicopter, snow mobile National parks offer great hiking trails – Over 20 National Parks in Alaska

Environmental Concerns Ice and glacier melt – Warming by.5 degrees each decade

Arctic Tundra