alpine tundra

Alpine tundra is a treeless biome found at high elevations on mountains, above the timberline. It is characterized by bare ground, rocks, and low-lying vegetation like mosses, lichens, herbs, and small shrubs. While Arctic tundra experiences extreme temperature fluctuations, alpine tundra has a more moderate climate with cool summers (3-12°C or 37-54°F) and mild winters that rarely drop below -18°C (0°F).12

Alpine tundra covers about 3% of Earth's land surface, primarily in the Northern Hemisphere. Its geography is shaped by strong winds and a freeze-thaw cycle of the ground. Unlike Arctic tundra, alpine regions typically do not have permafrost. The limited fauna often undertakes vertical migrations, descending to lower elevations in winter.314