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Biome and Ecosystem Essay William L. Angelo Colangelo College of Business, Grand Canyon University BIO-220, Environmental Science Tina Salata December 17, 2023 1

Biome and Ecosystem Essay In the vast and inhospitable landscapes of the Earth, the tundra biome stands as a testament to the resilience of life in extreme conditions. As we navigate through the stark beauty of this frozen wilderness, guided by an illuminating infographic, we unveil the intricacies of the tundra ecosystem. This essay will cast a spotlight on an exemplar tundra ecosystem, where the frigid temperatures and unique flora and fauna have given rise to a delicate but robust web of life. In examining the tundra biome, we will explore the pivotal role played by keystone species, analyze the impact of invasive species on its delicate equilibrium, and address the conservation challenges facing endangered inhabitants, all of which underscore the urgency of preserving the unique biodiversity within the frozen expanse of the tundra. Tundra Biome Nestled within the Arctic and alpine regions, the tundra biome emerges as a captivating and challenging ecosystem marked by extreme temperatures, vast expanses of permafrost, and a unique array of flora and fauna adapted to survive in this frozen wilderness. The tundra biome, which comes in various varieties and covers a vast range of regions, is a very cold, frozen, and treeless environment (Balasubramanian, 2013). Within Arctic and alpine regions, the tundra biome reveals an awe-inspiring and challenging environment characterized by extreme temperatures, expansive permafrost, and a distinctive array of flora and fauna adapted to survive in this frozen wilderness. Lichens, mosses, and low-lying shrubs punctuate the landscape, flourishing in the brief growing season. Herbivores like caribou and muskoxen navigate these frigid terrains, while predators such as Arctic foxes and snowy owls strategically hunt for sustenance. The tundra's delicate balance, shaped by its unforgiving climate, stands as a testament to the resilience and interconnectedness of its remarkable inhabitants. 2

Keystone Species In the expansive and frigid landscapes of the tundra biome, the Arctic fox (Vulpes lagopus) emerges as a crucial keystone species, holding the delicate balance of this extreme ecosystem and fostering the coexistence of its diverse inhabitants by regulating key herbivore populations, particularly lemmings. The arctic fox's main function in the ecosystem is that of an ecosystem engineer, meaning that its existence has a significant impact on and influences the general health of the ecosystem (Bakermans, n.d.). By controlling lemming populations, it prevents overgrazing, maintaining a delicate balance vital for the biome's health. This predator's role highlights the interconnectedness of species, highlighting the Arctic fox's pivotal contribution to sustaining biodiversity and ensuring the resilience of the tundra ecosystem in the face of its extreme environmental conditions. While the Arctic fox plays a vital role in maintaining balance, the tundra biome faces challenges with the introduction of invasive species that disrupt its delicate ecosystem. Invasive Species Challenging the delicate equilibrium of the tundra biome, the invasive Arctic ground squirrel (Spermophilus parryii) emerges as a disruptor, introducing a new dynamic that poses potential threats to the native flora and fauna, thus necessitating careful consideration and conservation measures. Ground squirrels in the Arctic have a profound impact on the biotic and abiotic environments around them. They can change the composition of plant communities around their burrows by depositing body wastes and engaging in selective feeding (Barker & Derocher, 2010). The introduction of the invasive Arctic ground squirrel (Spermophilus parryii) in the tundra biome triggers ecological concerns. As a non-native species, it competes for resources with indigenous fauna, potentially altering vegetation dynamics. Its presence 3

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underscores the need for vigilant monitoring and conservation strategies to mitigate the impact on the delicate balance of the tundra ecosystem. Amidst the challenges posed by invasive species, the tundra biome also grapples with the plight of endangered species, further emphasizing the intricacies of preserving biodiversity in this extreme environment. Endangered Species In the harsh environs of the tundra biome, the plight of the endangered species, such as the iconic polar bear (Ursus maritimus), unfolds as a poignant narrative, highlighting the urgent need for conservation measures to safeguard these vulnerable inhabitants facing the profound impacts of climate change and habitat disruption. The primary habitat of polar bears has been significantly impacted by the temperature shift that occurred during the 20th and early 21st centuries (Wiig et al., 2008). The polar bear's decline in the tundra is primarily due to vanishing sea ice from climate change, impacting hunting and breeding. Conservation efforts include international climate agreements, hunting regulations, and protected areas. Research programs aim to understand polar bear behaviors for more effective strategies to secure their future in the tundra biome. Conclusion Wrapping up this exploration, the tundra biome unfolds as a testament to life's resilience in extreme conditions. The keystone Arctic fox, invasive Arctic ground squirrel, and endangered polar bear intricately shape this delicate yet robust ecosystem. Meeting these challenges requires ongoing vigilance, international cooperation, and dedicated research to ensure the enduring vitality of this extraordinary Arctic biome. 4

References Bakermans, M. (n.d.). The keystone of the Tundra: preemptively protecting the Arctic Fox . Pressbooks. https://pressbooks.pub/extinctionstories/chapter/arcticfox/#:~:text=What %20can%20we%20learn%20from,the%20collapse%20of%20the%20tundra . Balasubramanian, A. (2013). THE TUNDRA BIOME. ResearchGate . https://www.researchgate.net/publication/314211666_THE_TUNDRA_BIOME Barker, O. E., & Derocher, A. E. (2010). Habitat selection by arctic ground squirrels (Spermophilus parryii). Journal of Mammalogy , 91 (5), 1251–1260. https://doi.org/10.1644/10-mamm-a-030.1 Wiig, Ø., Aars, J., & Born, E. W. (2008). Effects of climate change on polar bears. Science Progress , 91 (2), 151–173. https://doi.org/10.3184/003685008x324506 5

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