In-Depth Notes on Tundras

Definition of Tundras

• Tundras are among the Earth's coldest and harshest biomes.
• Characterized by treeless regions with extreme cold and low rainfall.

Types of Tundras

1. Alpine Tundra

   • Located on mountains where trees cannot grow due to high altitude.
   • Growing season lasts approximately 180 days.
   • Common wildlife includes:
     • Mountain goats
     • Sheep
     • Marmots
     • Birds (feed on low-lying plants and insects)

2. Arctic Tundra

   • Extends from the edge of the Arctic Ocean down to the coniferous forest of the Taiga.
   • Presence of permafrost prevents trees from taking root.
   • Short summer growing season lasts between 50 and 60 days.
   • Typical wildlife includes:
     • Arctic foxes
     • Polar bears
     • Caribou

Permafrost and Environmental Impact

• Permafrost: A layer of permanently frozen ground that impacts vegetation and ecosystem stability in tundras.
• The melting of permafrost due to global warming leads to:
  • Changed landscape.
  • Altered habitats for plants and animals.
  • Release of carbon stored in permafrost (approximately 14% of Earth's carbon) into the atmosphere, further contributing to global warming.

Interconnection of Global Warming and Tundra Ecosystems

• Global warming influences the tundra ecosystems.
• Deterioration of Arctic permafrost exacerbates global warming issues due to carbon release, demonstrating a feedback loop between climate change and tundra environments.