The Arctic tundra is located in the northern hemisphere and known for its cold, desert-like conditions. The average winter temperature is -30° F, but the average summer temperature is 37-54° F which enables this biome to sustain life. Rainfall may vary in different regions of the arctic. A layer of permanently frozen subsoil called permafrost exists, consisting mostly of gravel and finer material. When water saturates the upper surface, bogs and ponds may form, providing moisture for plants.
http://environment.nationalgeographic.com/environment/habitats/tundra-‐threats/
http://www.blueplanetbiomes.org/tundra_animal_page.htm
http://environment.nationalgeographic.com/environment/habitats/tundra-‐threats/
http://www.ucmp.berkeley.edu/exhibits/biomes/tundra.php
Sources Arctic Tundra
Sydney Galando, Marissa TR, Abigail Jemley
Climate and Environmental Issues
Due to global warming the permafrost layer of the arctic tundra has began melting. If the permafrost completely melts then some species currently living there won’t survive. Also the search for more oil in the arctic tundra can cause melting of ice making it hard for many species to survive.
Plant and Animal Life
There is a wide range of plants and animals found in the arctic tundra. Some of the most common animals are the polar bear, arctic fox, and caribou. Well known plants consist of arctic moss, arctic willow, and bear berry.
Many animals living in the arctic grow thick fur and have short ears and tails to conserve heat.
Plants in the arctic tundra are mainly perennials, meaning they don’t die during winter. They are also able to grow quickly because of short hours of sunlight during the summer.
Features of the Tundra
and exciting activities !
The arctic tundra is covered in permafrost meaning that the ground is permanently frozen. The surface layer above the permafrost thaws each summer. During the summer the melted snow has nowhere to go so the active layer becomes saturated and pools of water form on the surface.
Best times to visit!
Summer visits: If you want 24 hours of daylight then the arctic tundra is the place for you! With average temperatures of 40 degrees Fahrenheit there is so much to go out and explore.
In the far north tundra of Alaska winter temperatures can reach 20 degrees below zero during winter. Although it is quite the challenge to stay in such cold weather with almost no daylight it is the best time to explore the tundra. This time of year is when the northern Alaskan tundra is the least crowded and the most interesting.
During the winter in the Arctic Tundra there are sports such as: snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and ice fishing -During the summer, there are Guided wildlife safaris and visitors can see polar bears, Arctic foxes, migrating caribou, and brown bears in their natural habitat. Other options include salmon fishing, hiking, and camping