In arctic climates, you will find tundra vegetation including mosses and lichens.
Vegetation in Arctic Climate Zones
According to the provided reference, tundra, mosses, lichens forest vegetation is found in the cold zone (65-90 degrees N & S) with the Arctic or polar climate type. This means that in the harsh conditions of the Arctic, the primary types of plant life that survive are adapted to the cold temperatures, permafrost (ground that remains frozen for long periods), and short growing seasons.
The Arctic climate is characterized by very cold winters and cool summers. The ground is often covered by snow and ice for most of the year. Due to these conditions, tall trees and dense forests like those found in warmer climates cannot survive. Instead, the vegetation is typically low-growing and resilient.
Key Plant Types
The vegetation commonly found in arctic climates includes:
- Tundra: This is a biome characterized by permafrost, low temperatures, a short growing season, and little precipitation. The vegetation consists of dwarf shrubs, sedges, grasses, mosses, and lichens. There are no trees in the treeless tundra regions.
- Mosses: These are small, soft plants that typically grow in damp or shady locations. They are well-adapted to the moist conditions that can occur during the brief arctic summer when the surface layer of the permafrost thaws.
- Lichens: These are composite organisms consisting of a symbiotic relationship between a fungus and an alga or cyanobacterium. Lichens are incredibly hardy and can survive in extreme environments, including the cold, rocky, and nutrient-poor conditions of the Arctic.
These types of vegetation form a unique ecosystem that supports various arctic animals.
| Vegetation Type | Characteristics Found in Arctic |
|---|---|
| Tundra | Low-growing plants, permafrost |
| Mosses | Small, adapted to damp areas |
| Lichens | Hardy, symbiotic organisms |
While the reference mentions "tundra, mosses, lichens forest vegetation," it's important to clarify that the forest part often refers to areas near the tree line where sparse, stunted trees might exist, or it might be a slight misnomer for the typical treeless arctic tundra where mosses and lichens are prevalent alongside other low plants. The core components clearly stated are tundra, mosses, and lichens, which are characteristic of the polar climate zone between 65 and 90 degrees latitude North and South.
