tundra ecosystem

The tundra ecosystem is a cold, treeless region found mainly near the Arctic and Antarctic. It has short growing seasons, with low temperatures and limited rainfall. The soil is often frozen (permafrost), which restricts plant growth. Despite harsh conditions, it supports hardy plants like mosses, grasses, and low shrubs, as well as animals such as Arctic foxes, caribou, and migratory birds. The tundra plays a vital role in Earth's climate regulation and stores large amounts of carbon in its frozen soil. Its fragile environment is sensitive to climate change, making conservation important.