Subarctic Climates and Coniferous Forests

Subarctic climates (Köppen Dfc, Dwd, Dsc, Dsd) feature long, cold winters and short, cool summers. They occur between 50°–60° North in Europe, Asia, and North America. These regions are dominated by coniferous (taiga) forests of spruce, fir, and pine—trees adapted with thick bark and waxy needles. The biome supports wildlife like moose, caribou, wolves, and bears. Indigenous peoples traditionally rely on hunting, fishing, and gathering; today, tourism and recreation are growing.