biomes

The 3 Sub-environments are primarily due to location -the further north, the more extreme. How could tell which sub-formation you were in based only on the vegetation?

1) most extreme environment moss/lichen layer 2) not so extreme environment moss/lichen/herb layer 3) least extreme environment moss/lichen/herb/shrub layer

Name 5 characteristics that define a Tundra:

1.Extremely cold climate, bleak 2.Low biotic diversity 3.Simple vegetation structure 4.Limitation of drainage (arctic) 5.Short season of growth and reproduction 6.Energy and nutrients in the form of dead organic material 7.Large population oscillations

What is unique about the giant Sequoia?

275' tall largest living mass on earth

What is the annual precipitation (approximately)? How does this compare to Ohio?

7.5" yearly average, about 1/3 that of Oxford so similar to many N. American deserts.

Do any US states have Arctic Tundra?

Alaska

****There are no conifers in the foothill regions. What plants are found here? (See Vankat book)

Deciduous trees rounded tops

Where can you find Alpine Tundra in the US?

Found on tallest peaks of Sierra Cascades, & Rockies. Very sparse, small distribution.

Approximately how long is the growing season?

Growing season very short; 1-3 months

Describe some of bearberry's adaptations

It can stay out of the wind chill. It's fine silky hairs also help to keep it warm. Leathery leaves are also an adaptation to the cold of the tundra.

What are the other 3 Grassland types and what defines them?

Tall Grass Mixed Grass Short Grass

Why do many plants grow in a cushion growth form?

close to surface, away from wind

The soil is very dark - why?

cold climate, rate of decomposition is slow = buildup of organic matter.

Why is the soil considered to be unstable?

freezes and thaws many times--heaving, expansion/contraction of soil

Why are most of the herbaceous plants perennial?

growing season is too short to germinate new seeds and grow new plants

What are Pingo's? How are they created?

large "frost boils", earthen hills with frozen, icy centres and cratered tops

What is the Finnish translation for the word Tundra?

treeless plain