Biomas da Terra - Tundra

Summary

This episode explores the Tundra biome, characterized by its vast, treeless plains with low temperatures rarely exceeding freezing. Found in polar regions like northern Canada, Sweden, and Siberia, the Tundra experiences short summers and long, cold winters with permafrost. Vegetation is dominated by mosses, lichens, and small shrubs, while fauna includes migratory species and residents like polar bears and Arctic foxes. The Arctic Tundra, the driest and coldest biome, receives minimal precipitation and has a unique 24-hour sunlight period in summer, influencing its adapted flora and fauna.

Takeaways

• 🌍 The Tundra biome is characterized by vast plains with low vegetation and a lack of water, typically found in Arctic regions.
• 🌡 The temperatures in the Tundra are consistently low, not exceeding the freezing point, and the area experiences short summers and long, cold winters.
• 🌳 The vegetation in the Tundra is predominantly dwarf shrubs, mosses, and lichens, with little to no large trees due to the harsh climate.
• 🐾 The fauna of the Tundra includes both migratory and resident species, such as polar bears, reindeer, and Arctic foxes, some of which change color with the seasons.
• ❄️ The Tundra experiences permafrost, where the soil remains frozen year-round, with a layer of ice beneath the surface that can be up to 600 meters thick.
• 🌱 The short summer season in the Tundra allows for some plant growth, despite the extreme cold, with the vegetation being mostly herbaceous.
• 🌑 The long winter in the Tundra lasts about 10 months, during which the vegetation is covered in ice and the temperatures are extremely low, ranging from -28 to -34 degrees Celsius.
• 🌦️ Precipitation in the Tundra is scarce, with annual rainfall typically between 15 to 25 cm, and the region is one of the driest and coldest on Earth.
• 🕊️ Migratory birds and caribou are among the species that undertake seasonal migrations, moving southward towards the Taiga as the winter approaches.
• 🌞 Despite the 24-hour sunlight during the summer months, the intensity of light is still low, yet sufficient for the development of the Tundra's vegetation and fauna.

Q & A

What is the Tundra biome characterized by?

The Tundra biome is characterized by low temperatures, a lack of trees, and a landscape dominated by grasses, mosses, and lichens. It is typically found in high latitude regions.

Why is the Tundra biome called 'Tundra'?

The term 'Tundra' comes from a Finnish word meaning 'treeless plain,' which accurately describes its treeless, flat landscape.

In which regions can the Tundra biome be found?

The Tundra biome is mainly found in the Arctic regions, including parts of Canada, Sweden, Finland, and Siberia.

What is the significance of the short summer season in the Tundra?

During the short summer season, which lasts approximately two months, the vegetation in the Tundra flourishes, and this is also the time when migratory species are present.

What types of vegetation are commonly found in the Tundra?

The Tundra is dominated by low-lying vegetation such as grasses, mosses, and lichens, with some areas also featuring small shrubs.

How does the long winter season affect the Tundra biome?

The long winter season, which lasts about 10 months, causes the vegetation to be covered in ice, and the temperatures drop significantly, affecting the survival and activity of the fauna.

What is the permafrost, and how does it impact the Tundra?

Permafrost is a layer of soil that remains frozen for at least two consecutive years, and it significantly impacts the Tundra by creating a barrier that prevents water drainage and limits the growth of vegetation.

What are some animal species that are adapted to the Tundra's harsh conditions?

Animals such as the polar bear, reindeer, Arctic fox, and lemmings are adapted to the Tundra's cold environment, with some changing their fur color to blend with the seasons.

How does the Tundra's climate affect its precipitation levels?

The Tundra is one of the driest and coldest biomes on Earth, with annual precipitation levels ranging from about 15 to 25 cm, mostly in the form of snow.

What are some adaptations that Tundra animals have for survival during the winter?

Tundra animals have various adaptations for survival, such as hibernation, migration, and changing fur color to match the environment. Some species also fluctuate in population numbers to cope with the harsh conditions.

What is the significance of the 24-hour sunlight during the Tundra's summer?

Despite the continuous sunlight, the intensity is still low, but it is sufficient for the growth of vegetation and the activity of fauna during the brief summer season.