Which biome is characterized by low temperatures and permafrost?

The tundra biome is defined by its extremely low temperatures and the presence of permafrost, which is a permanently frozen layer of soil beneath the surface. This environmental characteristic significantly influences the type of vegetation that can grow in the tundra, primarily consisting of mosses, lichens, and small shrubs that are adapted to these harsh conditions. The cold temperatures and short growing seasons limit the biological activity and productivity in this biome, creating a unique ecosystem compared to others such as tropical rainforests or temperate forests, where temperatures are milder and biodiversity is much higher. Permafrost also plays a crucial role in water drainage, leading to conditions that can create waterlogged soils in the summer when the upper layer thaws. This distinct combination of low temperatures and permafrost makes the tundra easily identifiable and sets it apart from other biomes.