Desert Living

Question 1

Climate of hot desert

Answer 1

50C daytime temps, 4C at night, <250mm rainfall a year, intense solar radiation.

Question 2

Physiological adaptation example of insects

Answer 2

Namib desert beetle (Shenocara gracilepes) - has a hydrophilic elytra, allowing it to condense water vapour.

Question 3

Behavioral adaptation example of insects

Answer 3

Desert ants (cataglyphis sp.) - find their way to nests using sun, counting steps, magnetic fields and pheromones.

Question 4

General adaptations of insects to desert life

Answer 4

1. Water storage: Specialized body structures store water.
2. Exoskeleton: Thick, waxy cuticle reduces water loss.
3. Burrowing: Shelter in sand to avoid heat and dehydration.
4. Nocturnal activity: Active at night to escape daytime heat.
5. Small size: Minimizes water and energy needs.
6. Efficient respiration: Spiracles close to limit water loss.
7. Cryptic coloration: Camouflage for predator avoidance.
8. Diet versatility: Ability to consume dry or scarce food.
9. Long legs: Keeps body elevated from hot surfaces.
10. Heat tolerance: Proteins adapted to high temperatures.

Question 5

Gerbil

Answer 5

Gerbillus sp.

Question 6

Gerbil adaptations

Answer 6

1. Water conservation: Highly efficient kidneys minimize water loss.
2. Nocturnal activity: Active at night to avoid heat.
3. Burrowing: Creates cool, humid underground shelters.
4. Fur insulation: Limits heat absorption during the day.
5. Large ears: Enhance heat dissipation.
6. Seed storage: Hoards food for dry periods.
7. Fat storage: Stores energy in tails for scarcity.
8. Fast reproduction: Increases survival chances in harsh environments.
9. Desert diet: Eats seeds, roots, and dry vegetation.
10. Camouflage: Fur matches sandy environments to avoid predators.

Question 7

Camel

Answer 7

Camelus sp.

Question 8

Camel Adaptations

Answer 8

1. Hump fat storage: Stores fat for energy, not water.
2. Thick fur: Insulates against heat during the day and cold at night.
3. Long eyelashes: Protect eyes from sand and sun.
4. Nasal adaptations: Conserves water by trapping moisture in exhaled air.
5. Wide feet: Prevents sinking in sand.
6. Water efficiency: Drinks large quantities and tolerates dehydration.
7. Concentrated urine: Minimizes water loss.
8. Tolerant body temperature: Can fluctuate without ill effects.
9. Flexible diet: Consumes tough, thorny plants.
10. Thick lips: Protect against rough vegetation.