The Hot Desert

Michael Hatton

Daniel Diedrich

WORLD MAP

CLIMATE

Hot desert climates are exceptionally hot for long periods of the year.

High temperatures of 113° Fahrenheit are not uncommon

During colder periods, night-time temperatures can drop down to freezing, but rarely drops far below freezing

SOIL CONDITIONS

Soils are course textures, shallow, rocky, or gravely, with good drainage and little to no surface water.

Less chemical weathering than other places.

Finer dust and sand are blown elsewhere leaving behind heavier pieces.

Sand Storms are common.

HUMAN EFFECTS

Military activities and off road vehicles damage desert cover.

Mining activities often destroy the land. Grazing pressure often expands the

desert area

RESOURCES

Oil Salts Gypsum Solar Energy Laterite

Include but are not limited to…

PRODUCERS

CACTI

The cacti has adapted to absorb and hold water.

The stem has evolved to become photosynthetic.

The leaves have evolved into spines.

OCOTILLO

Also known as Coachwhip.

Often eaten by Insects, Hummingbirds, and Bees.

During drought, it sheds its leaves to conserve moisture.

SAGE BRUSH

It’s scientific name is Artemisia tridentata.

Can grow as tall as 10 ft.

It’s not fire tolerant.

Relies on wind to transfer seeds.

CREOSOTE BUSHES

THORN ACACIAS

Include but are not limited to…

CONSUMERS

KANGAROO RATS

A primary consumer in the hot desert.

They hop in a manner similar to the much larger kangaroo.

Not related to the kangaroo at all.

SCORPIONS

A secondary consumer in the hot desert.

Range in size from 9mm to 21mm.

25 species are known to have venom capable of killing a human.

KIT FOX

The kit fox is a tertiary level consumer in the hot desert.

Their large ears lower their body temperature while allowing great hearing.

CAMEL SPIDER

SIDE WINDER

BIBLIOGRAPHY

http://edtech2.boisestate.edu/mckeana/502/virtualtour/desert.html

http://www.sln.org.uk/geography/images/Living1.gif

http://www.defenders.org/wildlife_and_habitat/habitat/desert.php

http://www.ncat.edu/~student3/pt3/GP10/food_chains_and_webs.htm