tundra vegetation

Tundra vegetation consists mainly of hardy plants adapted to cold, windy conditions with a short growing season. It includes mosses, lichens, grasses, low shrubs, and some dwarf trees. These plants grow close to the ground to resist cold and conserve heat, often forming a dense mat. Due to limited nutrients and extreme weather, they grow slowly and have special adaptations like a short stature, thick insulating layers, and the ability to survive long periods of darkness and cold. Tundra vegetation plays a crucial role in supporting local wildlife and maintaining the fragile Arctic ecosystem.