Ecosystems: Thar Desert

Question 1

Thar desert facts

Answer 1

-seventh largest desert

Question 2

Opportunities for Thar desert

Answer 2

• mining:Gypsum,Feldspar,Phosphorite,Kaolin
• energy: India’s largest wind farm close to Jaisalmar in west Thar +coal and oilfields + ideal conditions for solar power generation.
• farming: possible due to irrigation + Indira Ghandi Canal. Crops like cotton wheat pulses sesame and mustard
• tourism: Jaisalmer attracts and Indira Ghandi canal makes water available. Annual desert festival

Question 3

Challenges for Thar Desert

Answer 3

• extreme temperatures: can reach 50°C, high evaporation= less water
• water supply: few rivers, little rainfall. Indira Ghandi canal built 1985
• Accessibility: Limited Road Network, camels used for travel

Question 4

Causes of desertification!

Answer 4

• climate change: less rainfall rising temperatures
• overpopulation: deforestation at edge of deserts, firewood-leads to soil being exposed to erosion
• overgrazing: grass eaten, soil exposed
• over cultivation: too many crops nutrients go bye bye means no grass boom desert

Question 5

Strategies to reduce desertification

Answer 5

• water and soil management: JOHEDS built, mounds of earth to trap water behind, shallow pond in monsoon season. Recharges groundwater, raises water table
• tree planting: khejiri tree, roots stabilise sand dunes, leaves protect soil

Question 6

What are desert animal adaptations?

Answer 6

• desert rat: efficient kidneys, doesn’t lose water
• fennec fox: large ears, nocturnal
• camel: eyelashes

Question 7

What are desert plant adaptations?

Answer 7

• cactus: long roots to reach groundwater
• cactus: spikes to avoid being eaten, little vegetation
• Joshua tree: waxy leaves to reflect the sun