Kertomainen

Kertomainen is a Finnish term used to describe a type of geographic location characterized by a combination of rocky and treeless terrain, often found in high-latitude regions such as Lapland. This landscape is typically marked by a vast expanse of flat or gently rolling terrain, punctuated by scattered rocky outcroppings, hills, and small elevations.

Kertomainen regions often feature a subarctic climate, with long, cold winters and short, mild summers. The treeless nature of this environment is due in part to the harsh, windswept conditions, which make it difficult for trees to grow and thrive. Additionally, the extremely short growing season and limited soil quality further restrict the ability of trees to become established.

The name "kertoma" is derived from the Finnish word for "rocky mire," which refers to the type of terrain found in these areas. The landscape is often dominated by low-growing shrubs, mosses, and grasses, which have adapted to the challenging conditions.

The kertomainen environment is home to a variety of unique and hardy plant and animal species that have evolved to thrive in these conditions. These species often have specialized adaptations that allow them to survive the harsh winters and limited growing season.

Kertomainen regions can be found throughout the northernmost regions of Europe, including parts of Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Russia. These areas are often used for geophysical and environmental research due to the unique characteristics of the terrain and the opportunities they present for studying the effects of climate change.