Florida Biology EOC Practice Test

The tundra biome is characterized by extremely low temperatures and the presence of permafrost, which is a permanently frozen layer of soil found beneath the surface. This biome is typically located in high-latitude regions, such as the Arctic and Antarctic, where the climate is harsh, and the growing season is very short. The vegetation in tundra consists mainly of mosses, lichens, and low shrubs, adapted to survive in these cold conditions.

In contrast, tropical rainforests are known for their warm temperatures and high levels of precipitation, creating a lush environment with a diverse array of plant and animal life. Deserts experience very low rainfall and have a hot or cold climate but do not have permafrost, as their temperatures are not consistently low enough to support it. Temperate forests have moderate climates and do not typically experience the extreme cold or permafrost associated with tundras. Thus, the defining characteristics of low temperatures and permafrost clearly identify the tundra as the correct answer.