As an expert in environmental science, I can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the climate of the tundra. The tundra is one of the Earth's biomes characterized by its cold, harsh conditions. It is found in the northernmost regions of the planet, known as the Arctic tundra, and also in high-altitude areas such as mountain tops, which are referred to as alpine tundra.

The Arctic tundra is a vast, treeless plain that stretches across the northern parts of North America, Europe, and Asia. The climate of this region is defined by its extremely cold winters and short, cool summers. The average temperature during the coldest months can drop to -40 degrees Fahrenheit (-40 degrees Celsius), while the warmest months might see temperatures rise to 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius). However, as you mentioned, the average temperature generally hovers around 10 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-12 to -6 degrees Celsius).

One of the most distinctive features of the tundra climate is the polar night and the midnight sun. During the winter, the sun does not rise above the horizon for an extended period, resulting in a continuous darkness known as the polar night. Conversely, during the summer, the sun remains above the horizon for 24 hours a day, providing the phenomenon known as the midnight sun.

The growing season in the tundra is very limited. As you correctly pointed out, it lasts for only about 50 to 60 days. This short period is the only time when the ground is not frozen, allowing plants to grow. The soil, known as permafrost, is permanently frozen except for a thin layer on the surface that thaws during the summer.

Despite the harsh conditions, the tundra supports a variety of animal species. Some of the key species include the Arctic fox, polar bear, gray wolf, caribou, snow geese, and musk-oxen. These animals have adapted to the extreme cold and the scarcity of food. For example, the Arctic fox has thick fur to keep warm, and the caribou migrate long distances to find food.

The vegetation of the tundra is also adapted to the cold and dry conditions. Plants are generally low-growing and grow close to the ground to avoid the constant winds. Mosses, lichens, and grasses are common, and they can grow rapidly during the short summer to take advantage of the 24-hour sunlight.

The climate of the tundra is also influenced by global climate change. The region is warming at a faster rate than other parts of the world, which is causing the permafrost to thaw and affecting the habitats of the wildlife. This has significant implications for the ecosystems and the indigenous communities that rely on the tundra for their livelihoods.

In conclusion, the tundra's climate is characterized by its cold temperatures, short growing season, and unique phenomena like the polar night and midnight sun. The biome supports a variety of specially adapted flora and fauna, which are facing challenges due to climate change.

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The Arctic tundra, where the average temperature is 10 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-12 to -6 degrees Celsius), supports a variety of animal species, including Arctic foxes, polar bears, gray wolves, caribou, snow geese and musk-oxen. The summer growing season is just 50 to 60 days, when the sun shines 24 hours a day.Oct 2, 2017read more >>