Unit 1B- cold Environments Flashcards
What is the climate of polar and tundra?
Polar- normally below freezing
Tundra- In warm months maximum of 10
In winters maximum -50
Why is the nutrients low in soil in cold environments?
Plants grow slowly and decompose slowly, so plant cover is low
How are plants adapted to cold environments?
Low growing, shallow roots and small leaves to limit loss of water through transpiration
How are animals adapted in cold environments?
Thick fur or blubber,hibernation and camouflage with snow
Why is it important to conserve wilderness in cold environments?
1) They provide habitats for organisms that couldn’t survive elsewhere
2) Scientists can study natural environments, which provides valuable knowledge about fragile ecosystems
What are three conservation strategies thet help balance economic development in cold environments?
Governments
International agreements
Conservation groups
What does the 1959 antarctic treaty do?
Limits visitors
Ensures peaceful non-military activities
What does the 1964 wilderness act do?
Development has to take place elsewhere, reducing conflict over land use
What are four development strategies in Alaska?
Energy
Mineral resources
Fishing
Tourism
What is the Trans-Alaska oil pipeline?
From Prudhoe Bay to Valdez. It allows oil to be shipped to customers
What are 3 challenges to development in Alaska
Extreme temperature
Inaccessibility
Buildings and infrastructure
