how does climate affect nature in the tundra?

Question 1

short thermal growing season

Answer 1

• temps need to reach about 6 degrees
• only happens for about 2 months a year
• plant completes life cycle in a short time

Question 2

poor soils and drainage

Answer 2

• sub-soil remains frozen all year round leaving water-logged conditions
• well-drained soils are leached and acidic and nutrient deficient

Question 3

strong winds

Answer 3

• little protection as it is a tree-less environment

- causes physical damage to plants and increases moisture loss through transpiration

Question 4

slow nutrient recycling

Answer 4

-slow rates of organic decomposition due to low temperatures and water-logged conditions