Pronunciation: [tˈʌndɹəz] (IPA) 
The word "tundras" is spelled with a "t" and an "s" at the end, even though the pronunciation ends with a sound that is closer to "uh" or "ah." This is because the spelling reflects the use of the plural suffix "-s," which is pronounced as "s" except after certain consonants. In this case, the preceding "r" causes the sound to shift to an unstressed vowel, symbolized as "ə." So, the IPA transcription of "tundras" is /ˈtʌndrəz/.
Tundras are large, cold, treeless, and relatively flat regions found in the Earth's Arctic and subarctic regions. These ecosystems are characterized by their extremely low temperatures, short growing seasons, and lack of precipitation, with annual rainfall being less than 10 inches. Tundras can be found in regions such as Northern Europe, Alaska, and parts of Russia and Canada.
The defining feature of tundras is the permafrost - a layer of permanently frozen soil - which lies beneath the surface. Due to the frozen conditions, tundras are unable to support the growth of trees and instead feature a vast expanse of low-lying vegetation, including lichens, mosses, grasses, and shrubs. The vegetation found in tundras is adapted to survive in these harsh environments, with many plants being low-growing and capable of photosynthesis even at low temperatures.
Tundras also provide habitat for a wide range of animals, including unique species like reindeer, musk oxen, arctic foxes, and snowy owls. These animals have developed various adaptations to withstand the severe cold and find food during the short summers when the tundra blooms.
Overall, tundras are characterized by their extreme cold, sparse vegetation, and frozen landscapes. They play a crucial role in the global climate system, acting as carbon sinks and influencing weather patterns. However, tundras are also vulnerable to climate change, with rising temperatures leading to the thawing of permafrost and potential impacts on the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
The word "tundra" has its origins in the Russian language. It is derived from the Russian word "tundra" (тундра), which means "barren land". The term was first introduced into English in the late 19th century to describe the vast, flat, treeless plains found in the arctic and subarctic regions of Russia. Over time, it has become commonly used in English to refer to similar landscapes found in other cold regions, such as North America.
