Producers+and+Consumers+(Arctic+Tundra)

=__**Producers:**__= Lichens are the primary producers for the Arctic tundra. Some lichens possess the capability of surviving up to 3 years after being covered in ice. Lichens are a product of the symbiotic relationship between algae and fungi where the algae provide food and the fungi provide water, in order to support the growth of lichens (B1). //Xantheria elegans,// left (B2); Arctic tundra moss and lichen, right (B3)

Liverworts are bryophytes, or non-vascular plants, which are grouped within the same phylum as mosses (B1). Unlike other plants, liverworts do not absorb water through their roots and stems. Instead, they draw water through their leaves. As a result of this, Liverworts can live for a long time before they eventually dry out (B4). Arctic liverwort, left (B5); //Conocephalum conicum,// right (B6)

The arctic willow is a low-growing shrub no more than a few inches tall, and is one of the few tree species that live in the Arctic tundra (B1). While the shape of this plant varies throughout its range, its leaves are often oval shaped and contain a smooth margin and pointed tip. The arctic willow produces flowers known as 'catkins' (B7). Arctic willow, left (B8); //Salix arctica,// right (B9)

=__Consumers:__=

Herbivore:
Caribou are large, deer-like mammals that are well adapted to the Arctic tundra. They have large spread-out hooves which support them when walking on snow, and possess the ability to lower their metabolic rate as a means to enter semi-hibernation in response to harsh conditions in the tundra. During the winter, they scrape snow off the ground and eat lichen, dried sedges, and small shrubs. During the summer, they are able to find mushrooms, willows, and other plants. (B10)

//Rangifer tarandus,// left (B11); Reindeer, right (B12)

Omnivore:
Grizzly bears are well-suited to the Arctic tundra climate with their thick, shaggy coats and strong build. Although they are capable of hunting, grizzly bears' diets most often consist of plants, small rodents, insects, and honey. Grizzly bears do not go into full hibernation; they emerge occasionally from their dens, during the winter and into the spring. (B10) Grizzly bear in Brooks Falls, left (B13); Grizzly bear, right (B14)

Carnivore:
Snowy owls are elusive birds who have amazing camouflage for their Arctic home. These carnivores eat anything from arctic foxes to the occasional seabird. These predators are vital for the population control of other species, in making sure that those species do not overpopulate the area. (B10)

Male snowy owl, left (B15); Young snowy owl, right (B16)

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