hot desert animal adaptations

Question 1

Front of flashcard: Deserts

Answer 1

Found around the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn
Mainly between 15° and 30° north and south of the equator
Also found in North Africa, central Australia, and the southwest USA
Often found on the west coast of continents

Question 2

Desert Climate

Answer 2

Extreme temperatures: up to 50°C during the day and below 0°C at night
Less than 250 mm of rainfall per year
High diurnal temperature range
Several years can pass between rainfall events

Question 3

Desert Soils

Answer 3

Thin, sandy, rocky, and grey in color
Very dry and absorb water quickly
Surface may appear crusty due to lack of rainfall
Generally infertile due to lack of litter and presence of salts

Question 4

Cacti Adaptations

Answer 4

Shallow roots to absorb water
Needles to reduce moisture loss and deter animals
Succulent plants that store water
Waxy coating to reduce water loss

Question 5

Acacia Tree Adaptations

Answer 5

Deep roots (up to 50m) to reach water underground
Short, fat trunks act as water reservoirs
Small leaves reduce water loss
Umbrella-shaped crown captures sunlight and provides shade

Question 6

Camel Adaptations

Answer 6

Fat stored in hump for energy
Two rows of eyelashes and slit-like nostrils to protect from sand
Large padded feet to spread weight on sand
Thick fur for shade on top, thin fur for heat loss

Question 7

Desert Fox Adaptations

Answer 7

Large ears to radiate body heat
Hairy feet act like snowshoes and protect from hot sand
Effective shovels for digging
Nocturnal behavior to avoid high daytime temperatures