Desert Biome Summary
Deserts are often seen as barren, but they support many plants, animals, and even human populations—with about one-sixth of the world's population living in desert regions. A desert is defined as any area that receives less than 10 inches (25 cm) of rain annually. Deserts cover over one-fifth of the Earth's land and are found on every continent.
There are two main types of deserts:
Hot deserts, like the Sahara Desert (the largest hot desert, reaching up to 122°F / 50°C).
Cold deserts, like the Gobi Desert and the Antarctic Desert, where temperatures can drop to -30°F (-34°C) in winter.
Adaptations in the Desert
Animals:
Have evolved to conserve water and manage extreme temperatures.
Camels can survive without food and water for days.
Many are nocturnal to avoid daytime heat.
Some, like tortoises, stay underground during the day.
Cold desert animals like polar bears and snowshoe hares have thick fur and camouflage adaptations.
Plants:
Have long roots to reach underground water or store water like cacti.
In cold deserts, plants grow close together and near the ground to resist cold winds and snow.
Some, like lichens, can even grow on bare rock.
Extreme Temperatures
Hottest recorded temperature: Death Valley at 134°F (56.7°C).
Coldest desert: Arctic Polar Desert, averaging -30°F (-34°C) in winter.
Conclusion: Despite their harsh conditions, deserts are rich ecosystems with unique adaptations that allow life to thrive in both extreme heat and cold.
The Desert Biome Free Worksheet
Free Science Worksheets. Check out the list.
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