Desert ecosystem

DESERT ECOSYSTEM

INTRODUCTION

Known as a barren area of landscape where little precipitation occurs, it is one of Earth’s major types of ecosystems, supporting a community of distinctive plants and animals specially adapted to the harsh environment. About 1/5 of earth's surface is covered by the desert ecosystem.

ATTRIBUTES

• Arid, i.e. moisture deficit: lost more through evaporation
• Hostile habitat for living organisms
• Extreme temperature- Fluctuation in day and night temperatures, and also in seasons. Even polar deserts rarely experience temperature in excess of 10°C.F

• Average annual rainfall (precipitation): less than 25 cm

• 4 types of deserts;
• Low humidity during the day and comparatively high in night.

ORGANISMS' ADAPTATIONS

Plant adaptations;

2. Have deep roots to tap groundwater.

1. Have thick, waxy skin to reduce loss of water and to reflect heat.

3. Have thorns and thin, spiky or glossy leaves to reduce water loss

4. Have spikes protect cacti from animals wishing to use stored water.

Animal adaptations;

1. Body temperature can change to avoid losing water through sweating.

2. They can go without water for over a week because they can drink gallons in one go.

3. Thick fur helps to keep them warm at night.

4. They are well camouflaged

THREATS

1. Global warming is increasing the incidence of drought, which dries up water holes plus an increasing number of wildfires

2. Human development- Habitat of organisms may be destroyed due to the insufficient resources.

3. Environmental degradation- Chemical from industries may change the chemistry of soil causing harm to organisms.

REFERENCES

ANIS MAISARAH BINTI FAKHRULANUAR S55774

Smith. J. M.B. (2020, November 16). desert. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/science/desertCraig. S.B. (2014, June 13).https://www.mentalfloss.com/article /57204/20-amazing-animal-adaptations-living-desertMilton. K. (2021). What Ecological Problems and Hazards Face the Desert? https://education.seattlepi.com/ecological-problems-hazards-face-desert-4809.html