The Tundra Biome

Front

What is the tundra biome?

Back

The tundra biome is a cold, treeless area found in the Arctic and Antarctic regions, characterized by low temperatures, short growing seasons, and permafrost.

Front

What is permafrost?

Back

Permafrost is a layer of permanently frozen soil found in the tundra biome.

Front

Why do tundra plants grow close together?

Back

Tundra plants grow close together to hold their short roots in the ground.

Front

What happens to the ice on the top layer of soil during summer in the tundra?

Back

The summer sunshine melts the ice, and the water sinks into the soil.

Front

What stops the melting ice from going deeper underground?

Back

A layer of ice underground blocks the water from going deeper.

Front

What type of plant is a food source for many animals in the tundra?

Back

Lichens are a type of plant that serves as a food source for many animals in the tundra.

Front

How does the fur of the arctic hare and arctic fox change?

Back

The fur of both the arctic hare and arctic fox changes colors depending on the season.

Front

What problem arises when the red fox moves north into the arctic fox's territory?

Back

The red fox and the arctic fox fight over the same sources of food.

Front

What is a common characteristic of tundra animals?

Back

Many tundra animals have adaptations to survive in cold temperatures.

Front

What role do lichens play in the tundra ecosystem?

Back

Lichens provide food for herbivores and are important for the tundra ecosystem.