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The Tundra
Locations of the Tundra:
The tundra is located in the coldest, harshest regions of the world. Tundras are found in regions of the world where sunlight is very indirect. Tundra is found in Greenland, northern Europe and Asia, and on the tops of mountain ranges.
http://www.cnr.vt.edu/boyer/geog1014/topics/102Climate/polar/tundra.jpg
Climate
The tundra has a very cold harsh climate. The average yearly rainfall is less than 5 inches. The tundra is snow covered for the majordy of the year. In summer, the temperature can get up to 55oF. In winter the temperature can get as low as -25oF.
http://www.ri.net/schools/West_Warwick/manateeproject/Tundra/images/snowy%20tundra%20scene.jpg
Dominant Plant Species
Plants that live in the tundra are very resilient. Their roots are very close to the surface of the soil becuase there is a layer of permafrost, or permantly frozen ground, a few feet below the ground. There are almost no trees in the tundra and main plant species consist of shrubbery, lichen, moss, and some wildflowers.
http://tea.armadaproject.org/Images/hochstrasser/hochstrasser_carabidplantspost.jpg
Dominant Animal Species
Animals that live in the tundra have to have some special adaptations. They all have extra layers of fat, the ability to hibernate during winter, and they all have migration instincts. Some of the main species are polar bears, caribou, musk oxen, grey wolves, lemmings, rabbits, squirrels, penguins, and ravens. In the icy rivers are trout and other fresh water fish for animals to hunt.
http://www.ccboe.net/it/middle/images/E14B02356BDD430E89308C2D234C6256.jpg
Threats to the Tundra
Global warming is the main threat to tundras. The layers of permafrost are melting which results in the release of carbon, a greenhouse gas. Also, air pollution is killing lichen which is a main food source for many tundra species. Oil spills are also damaging tundras.
http://forumpolitics.com/pics/global_warming.jpg