Deserts   McKenzie Eller 

There are four major types of deserts Hot and Dry Semiarid  Coastal Cold

Temperature/ Rainfall Semiarid The summers are moderately long and dry, while the winters normally bring little rainfall. Summer temperatures usually average between 69-80° F.

Soil Characteristics The soil can range from sandy and fine-textured to loose rock fragments, gravel or sand

Plant Adaptation The spiny nature of many plants provides protection in the hazardous environment. The large numbers of spines shade the surface to significantly reduce transpiration.   Many plants have silvery or glossy leaves, allowing them to reflect more energy. These plants often have an odd odor or taste.

Locations Hot semi-arid climates tend to be located in the 20s and 30s latitudes (tropics and subtropics), close to regions with a tropical savanna climate or a humid subtropical climate.

Animal Adaptations  During the day, insects move around twigs to stay on the shady side  jack rabbits follow the moving shadow of a cactus or shrub. 

Special characteristics and sensitivities Semiarid plants include: Creosote bush, bur sage, white thorn, cat claw, mesquite, brittle bushes Semiarid plants include: Creosote bush, bur sage, white thorn, cat claw, mesquite, brittle bushes  Sometimes it snows during the winter 

“The Desert Biome. ” The Desert Biome, www. ucmp. berkeley “The Desert Biome.” The Desert Biome, www.ucmp.berkeley.edu/exhibits/biomes/deserts.php. “Desert Archaeology, Inc. | Full-Service Archaeological Compliance.” Desert Archaeology, Inc. | Full Service Archaeological and Historical Compliance, desert.com/.