Topic Summaries

Interdependence in cold environments

IGCSE > Geography > CIE > IGCSE Geography Topic Summaries > Cold environment ecosystems > Interdependence in 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

  • Climate: the cold climate limits plant growth and creates permafrost (permanently frozen ground). Low temperatures and short growing seasons mean plants grow slowly and are small, like mosses and lichens. Animals, such as Arctic foxes and caribou, rely on these plants for food, while predators like polar bears depend on other animals for survival.
  • Permafrost: affects the soil, making it frozen and nutrient-poor, which limits plant growth. In summer, the top layer of permafrost thaws, allowing plants to grow and providing food for animals. If permafrost melts due to climate change, it releases greenhouse gases like methane, which can further warm the climate. 
  • Soil: soils tend to be thin, frozen, and lack nutrients because of the cold climate and slow decomposition of organic matter. Plants that grow in these soils are adapted to survive with minimal nutrients, and animals depend on these plants for food. 
  • Plants: plants like mosses, lichens, and shrubs provide food and shelter for animals. They also help stabilise the soil and prevent erosion, which is important in areas with thawing permafrost.
  • Animals: animals are adapted to survive the harsh conditions, such as thick fur or fat for insulation. Herbivores like caribou depend on plants for food, while predators like wolves and polar bears rely on herbivores for food. People in cold environments often rely on animals for food, clothing, and transport (e.g. reindeer herding).

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