Question

G plants typical of the tundra are very short in stature or height. what is advantageous about the so called ‘cushion plant' form found in the tundra, relative to a tall plant

Answer 1

The cushion plant form found in the Tundra regions is an adaption that protects them from extreme cold temperatures. This adaptation is extremely common among the tundra plants. The plants adapted to this form grow very close to each other and are not very tall. This closeness, and the equal growth of all the plants in this clump makes a heat trap making it easier for the plants to survive in such extreme cold climate. These clumps are capable for absorbing heat from the soil as well as the sun which keeps their temperature at least 15 degrees more than their surrounding. Moreover, the hairy leaves on most of these plants absorb more heat keeping the plants warm enough.