Cryoturbation

Cryoturbation is a natural process in cold climates where the soil freezes and thaws repeatedly. These freeze-thaw cycles cause the soil to expand and contract, leading to the mixing and disturbance of soil layers. As a result, sometimes soil and roots become folded or pushed upward, creating irregular patterns and bumps on the land surface. This process influences soil structure, plant growth, and landscape appearance, and is common in tundra and northern regions with permafrost or seasonal freezing.