Which biome is characterized by the presence of tundra vegetation, including mosses and lichens?

The correct choice is characterized by a specific set of environmental conditions that support the growth of mosses and lichens, which are typical of tundra vegetation. Tundra is a biome found primarily in polar regions and involves a cold climate, short growing seasons, and permafrost—an underlying layer of permanently frozen soil. The harsh conditions limit the variety of plant life that can survive there, making mosses and lichens some of the most resilient species.

In contrast, the other biomes listed have distinct climatic conditions and vegetation types. Tropical grasslands are typically warm with distinct wet and dry seasons, while temperate rainforests are characterized by high rainfall and a more temperate climate, allowing for a diverse range of tree species and undergrowth. Hot deserts exhibit extreme temperatures with minimal precipitation, supporting only drought-resistant plants, which are not similar to those found in tundra environments. Thus, the presence of tundra vegetation, including mosses and lichens, clearly identifies the tundra as the correct biome.