þúfur

Þúfur are small mounds of earth found in Iceland and other northern regions. They are typically covered in vegetation, such as grass or moss. These formations are often the result of permafrost degradation, where the ground ice melts and causes the soil to shift and accumulate. Wind erosion also plays a role in shaping these mounds.

The size and density of þúfur can vary significantly, ranging from just a few centimeters to over a meter in height. They are a common feature in many Icelandic landscapes, particularly in peatlands and grasslands. The presence of þúfur can influence local hydrology and plant distribution. Specialized flora and fauna have adapted to thrive in these unique microhabitats.

Historically, þúfur have been observed and described in various Icelandic texts. Their formation is a natural process linked to the specific environmental conditions of cold climates. Scientists study þúfur to understand soil dynamics, climate change impacts, and ecological processes in periglacial environments. Their distinctive appearance makes them a recognizable element of the Icelandic terrain.