Hot Deserts Flashcards
what are plant adaptations (xerophytic)?
small leaves; less water lost by transpiration
tap roots; long roots that reach deep underground
spines; less water lost and prevent animals from eating plants
waxy skin; reduces water loss
water storage
how are camels adapted?
hump to store fat; broken down when there’s little access to food
wide, padded feet; carry their weight
double eyelashes; protect eyes from sand
camouflage; protect from predators
where are hot deserts found?
near the tropics of Cancer and Capricorn, between 15 and 30 degrees from the equator
what is desertification?
the process of land turning into desert as the quality of the soil declines over time
what are the human causes of desertification?
population growth, removal of wood, overgrazing, soil erosion, climate change
what are ways to tackle desertification?
planting more trees
improving quality of soil
water management