Tundra plants have developed adaptations that help them thrive in this harsh climate. Their short height makes them less vulnerable to strong tundra winds, and shallow roots allow them to pull moisture from the soil above the permafrost.
Photograph by Michael Melford
Protecting Earth's Tundra Habitats
The tundras that cover a tenth of Earth's land are essentially frozen bogs with little vegetation diversity. But these are among the most sensitive habitats in the world.
The most severe threat is global warming. Many scientists believe global warming caused by greenhouse gases may eliminate Arctic regions, including the tundras there, forever.
Another concern is that about one-third of the world's soil-bound carbon is in tundra permafrost. As this frozen soil thaws, its organic contents begin to decay, releasing carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas. The tundra is also slow to repair itself from physical disturbances, such as vehicular tracks. Cutting greenhouse gas emissions by switching to alternative energy uses is key to protecting Earth's tundra habitats.
Threats
- The melting of the permafrost as a result of global warming could radically change the landscape and what species are able to live there.
- Ozone depletion at the North and South Poles means stronger ultraviolet rays that will harm the tundra.
- Air pollution can cause smog clouds that contaminate lichen, a significant food source for many animals.
- Exploration of oil, gas, and minerals and construction of pipelines and roads can cause physical disturbances and habitat fragmentation.
- Oil spills can kill wildlife and significantly damage tundra ecosystems.
- Buildings and roads put heat and pressure on the permafrost, causing it to melt.
- Invasive species push aside native vegetation and reduce diversity of plant cover.
Solutions
- Switch to alternative energy uses to minimize human-made global warming.
- Establish protected areas and park reserves to restrict human influence.
- Limit road construction, mining activities, and the building of pipelines in tundra habitat.
- Limit tourism and respect local cultures.
Shop National Geographic
Advertisement
Green Living Hot Topics
-
Organic Air Fresheners
Avoid toxic chemicals and create a calming space.
-
Surprising Recyclable Household Items
With a little know-how, you can recycle more than you think.
-
Side Effects of Vegetarianism
Find out how to stay healthy and eat lower on the food chain.
National Geographic Magazine
-
Pollinators
They are the Earth’s pollinators. And they come in more than 200,000 shapes and sizes.
-
Age of Man
It’s a new name for a new geologic epoch—one defined by our own massive impact on the planet.
The World's Water
-
Visualizing Our Global Water Footprint
You might be surprised to see how the daily choices you make affect critical watersheds around the world.
-
Why Care About Water?
National Geographic's freshwater initiative is a global effort to inspire communities to conserve water and restore rivers.
Special Ad Section
