Tundra Ecosystems

Tundra ecosystems are cold, treeless regions found primarily in the Arctic and Antarctic, as well as at high mountain elevations. They have short summers and long, harsh winters, leading to a unique assortment of plants and animals adapted to extreme conditions. The ground is often frozen beneath the surface, known as permafrost, which affects water drainage and plant growth. Vegetation mainly includes mosses, lichens, and low shrubs. Tundra is crucial for biodiversity and plays a role in regulating the Earth's climate. Its sensitive environment is particularly vulnerable to climate change, which threatens its delicate balance.