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Tundra. Sari Salti Omar Khurma. What is a Tundra? . A Tundra is a biome characterized by low temperatures and minimal tree growth. The word Tundra usually only refers to areas where the subsoil is permanently frozen i.e. Permafrost.
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Tundra Sari Salti Omar Khurma
What is a Tundra? • A Tundra is a biome characterized by low temperatures and minimal tree growth. • The word Tundra usually only refers to areas where the subsoil is permanently frozen i.e. Permafrost. • Tundra’s occur far into the Northern Hemisphere, above the tree line e.g. Russia, Canada, Scandinavia, Greenland.
Climate • Only two main seasons; winter & summer. • Winter temperatures average at around -28°C, Summer temperatures average at around 12°C. • Tundra’s are extremely windy, with winds blowing at speeds of50-100 km/h. • Precipitation is minimal – 15-25 cm per year.
Wildlife • Low biodiversity – 1700 species of plants, 48 species of animals. • Animals in the Arctic tundra include: Caribou, Musk Ox, Arctic Hare, Arctic Fox, Snowy Owl, Lemmings, and Polar Bears
Human Impact • Scarce human activity in tundra’s. • Occasional hunting and animal trapping by local population. • Fossil fuels and Ores are often found in tundra’s. • Modern technology allows humans to exploit these resources. • Mining and road construction put heat and pressure on permafrost, causing it to melt.