Alpine tundra

Alpine Tundra is a type of natural region or biome that does not contain trees because it is at high altitude. The high altitude causes an adverse climate, which is too cold and windy to support tree growth. Alpine tundra transitions to sub-alpine forests below the tree line; stunted forests occurring at the forest-tundra ecotone are known as Krummholz.

Characteristics

Alpine tundra is distinguished from arctic tundra in that alpine tundra typically does not have permafrost, and alpine soils are generally better drained than arctic soils. Alpine tundra transitions to sub-alpine forests below the tree line; stunted forests occurring at the forest-tundra ecotone (the boundary area between the tundra and the forest) are known as Krummholz.

Flora and Fauna

Despite the harsh conditions of the alpine tundra, many species of plants and animals have adapted to this environment. Plant species tend to be small and stunted, including dwarf shrubs, grasses, and lichens. Animal species in the alpine tundra have also adapted to the cold, including mammals like the snow leopard and the mountain goat, and birds such as the golden eagle and the peregrine falcon.

Locations

Alpine tundra can be found in mountain ranges all over the world, including the Andes, the Alps, the Rocky Mountains, and the Himalayas. In these areas, the climate conditions of the alpine tundra exist above the tree line.

Human Impact

Human activities, such as agriculture, logging, and recreation, have had a significant impact on the alpine tundra. Climate change also poses a significant threat to this biome, as warming temperatures may alter the distribution and behavior of plant and animal species.

See Also

• Tundra
• Biome
• Climate change
• Mountain ecology