The vast treeless and rocky area of the meadow tundra ecosystem is
deceivingly barren-looking. However, much of the tundra supports small
plants, insects, and mammals in its rich, deep soil. The scale of life in this
region is so fine that tremendous variation in the shape and composition of
plant communities can occur in a small area.

The meadow tundra ecosystem operates at altitudes above 11,400 ft. Few
species can exist at this extreme elevation. Miniature shrubs, cushion plants,
small forbs, and narrow-leaved sedges and grasses cover the slopes of the
tundra. They have adapted traits which enable them to survive the rigorous
climate and short growing season. Overall, plants grow slowly and conserve
root mass from year to year to save energy. They have short flowering
seasons and produce massive blossoms. Rock surfaces are blanketed with
lichens and mosses. Where disturbances are frequent, areas are devoid of
plant cover.

Few species are obligate tundra inhabitants. The Brown-Capped Rosy Finch,
White-Tailed Ptarmagin, and American Pipit are common in the meadow tundra
ecosystem. Both the yellow-bellied marmot and the pika frequent the tundra,
but are also found in Douglas Fir and sub-alpine ecosystems. The Northern
pocket gopher aerates tundra soil with its deep burrows causing increased
moisture retention, and wind and water erosion of the soil. In the summer,
mule deer and elk forge on the tundra.