plant and animal adaptations

need to adapt to:

• short growing season
• permafrost
• strong winds
• poor soil quality
• slow nutrient recycling
• frost heave/ solifluction

how they adapt

• grow low to ground- reduces impact of winds on waterloss/ increase stability
• annuals- quick life style
• peremials- long life cycle
• create microclimate under snow
• large root structure- store food over winter, increases stability
• leaves are parabolic (domed) shape- increases surface area- absorbs more light

need to adapt to

• cold seasons with hard frosts
• strong winds/ wind chill
• prolonged drought
• heavy snow fall
• competiton for food
• large number/ variety of consumers

how they adapt

thick fur, store fat, antifreeze in blood, hibernate in winter, migrate away from cold areas in search of food, small litters- fewer to feed, small size- less energy needed, camolflaged fur, wide feet- easier movement through snow

caribou

• migrate in search of food
• feeds on inseason food
• wide hooves for digging and stability
• thick fur for warmth

polar bear

• deep sleepers- lower heart rate to conserve energy
• white coat- camoflage into background to help with hunting
• small ears to reduce heat loss
• small litters