As a subject matter expert in Earth's biomes, I can provide a detailed answer to your question. The coldest biome on Earth's surface is indeed the tundra. This biome is characterized by its extreme cold, with temperatures that can drop to well below freezing for most of the year. The tundra is a vast ecosystem that spans across the Arctic and Antarctic regions, as well as high-altitude mountainous areas.

The tundra is divided into two types: the Arctic tundra, which is found within the Arctic Circle, and the alpine tundra, which is found at high elevations on mountains. The Arctic tundra experiences long, harsh winters and short, cool summers. The average temperature in the winter can be as low as -34 degrees Celsius (-30 degrees Fahrenheit), while the summer temperatures can reach up to 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit). The alpine tundra, on the other hand, is influenced by altitude rather than latitude and experiences similar climatic conditions due to the high elevation.

One of the defining features of the tundra is the permafrost, which is a layer of permanently frozen ground that lies beneath the surface. This permafrost prevents the soil from draining properly, leading to waterlogged conditions during the brief summer thaw. The vegetation in the tundra is adapted to these harsh conditions and includes low-growing plants, mosses, lichens, and a few hardy shrubs. The animal life in the tundra is also adapted to survive in the extreme cold and includes species such as the Arctic fox, polar bear, caribou, and various migratory birds.

The tundra plays a crucial role in the global climate system. It acts as a carbon sink, storing large amounts of carbon in its frozen soils. However, with the ongoing effects of climate change, the permafrost is beginning to thaw, which could potentially release significant amounts of carbon dioxide and methane into the atmosphere, further exacerbating global warming.

The tundra is also home to indigenous peoples who have adapted to the harsh conditions and have developed unique cultures and ways of life. These communities rely on the tundra's resources for their survival and have a deep understanding of the ecosystem.

In summary, the tundra is the coldest biome on Earth, characterized by its extreme cold, permafrost, and unique flora and fauna. It plays a vital role in the global climate system and is home to indigenous communities that have a rich cultural heritage. The tundra is a fragile ecosystem that is facing significant challenges due to climate change, and its preservation is crucial for the health of our planet.

read more >>

The tundra biome is the coldest and one of the largest ecosystems on Earth. It covers about one-fifth of the land on the planet, primarily in the Arctic circle but also in Antarctica as well as a few mountainous regions.Mar 17, 2017read more >>