Arctic tundra in Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska
In Siberian, tundra means "north of the timberline."
Caribou on Alaskan tundra
Climate: long cold winters with relatively little precipitation (10-50 cm/yr). Temperature ranges from -50º C to ~15º C. Freezing can occur at anytime of year. Permafrost underlies much of this landscape.
Typical Vegetation: lichens, mosses, dwarf willows and birches, numerous wildflower species during short growing season.
Typical Animals: Caribou, wolves, musk ox, ptarmigan, grizzly bear, polar bear close to coastal areas, waterfowl. Mosquitoes and other insects.
Human Use and Conservation Issues: little human use except by hunter/gatherers until the 20th century. Vast deposits of coal, oil, and other minerals, e.g., gold, have and will result in increased exploitation. Subject to lasting degradation by humans.
Alpine tundra, San Juan Mountains, SW Colorado
Climate: short, cool summers with temperatures occasionally below freezing. Precipitation varies but snowfall may exceed 2 meters.
Typical Vegetation: grasses, sedges, wildflowers, lichens, dwarf tree species, cushion plants. More biodiverse than arctic tundra. Occurs above tree line. Elevation varies with latitude. For example, in SW Colorado, alpine tundra is about 12,000 feet. In Glacier National Park in Montana it is about 7500'. Varies with aspect. Vegetation is easily disturbed and slow to recover.
Typical Animals: Pika, mountain sheep, mountain goat, bears, coyotes, numerous small rodents, raptors.
Human Use and Conservation Issues: Used for grazing, particularly sheep. Many areas affected by mining for minerals such as gold, silver, molybdenum, and copper. Ski resorts often modify this environment. Increasing recreation pressure.
D.J. Huebner, 2001, University of Texas at Austin, Department of Geography
