[tuhn-druh, too
n-] 
| one of the vast, nearly level, treeless plains of the arctic regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. |
| tun·dra (tŭn'drə) n. A treeless area between the icecap and the tree line of Arctic regions, having a permanently frozen subsoil and supporting low-growing vegetation such as lichens, mosses, and stunted shrubs. [Russian, from Sami tūndar, flat-topped hill.] |
A land area near the North Pole where the soil is permanently frozen a few feet underground.
Note: There are no trees on the tundra: the vegetation is primarily lichens and mosses.
Note: Tundra is widespread in Lapland and in the far northern portions of Alaska, Canada, and the Soviet Union.
| tundra (tŭn'drə) Pronunciation Key
A cold, treeless, usually lowland area of far northern regions. The lower strata of soil of tundras are permanently frozen, but in summer the top layer of soil thaws and can support low-growing mosses, lichens, grasses, and small shrubs. |