the hot desert michael hatton daniel diedrich. hot desert climates are exceptionally hot for long...
TRANSCRIPT
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