Topic Summaries

Adaptations to cold environments

IGCSE > Geography > CIE > IGCSE Geography Topic Summaries > Cold environment ecosystems > Adaptations to cold environments
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Weather hazards and atmospheric circulation

Tropical storm hazards

Responding to tropical storms

Hot desert ecosystems

Cold environment ecosystems

Glacial landscapes

Glacial landform processes

Water supply

Energy supply

  • Plants:
    • Small leaves: reduce water loss through transpiration, which is important in cold, dry conditions. 
    • Dark colours: some plants have dark-coloured leaves to absorb more heat from the sun. 
    • Shallow roots: because the permafrost prevents deep growth, and the soil is thin and nutrient-poor.
  • Animals:
    • Thick fur or feathers: animals like polar bears, Arctic foxes, and snowy owls have thick fur or feathers to insulate against the cold.
    • Camouflage: Arctic animals like polar bears and Arctic hares have white fur to blend in with the snow, helping them avoid predators or hunt prey.
    • Small extremities: animals like Arctic foxes and hares have small ears and tails to reduce heat loss.

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